Antibacterial Hand Soaps May be Harmful

A new study suggests that a chemical found in antibacterial hand soaps and other household products may impair muscle function in animals.

The chemical is called triclosan and in addition to antibacterial personal-care products such as deodorant, soap, and mouthwash, it is also found in household items including trash bags, bedding, and toys.

Researchers from the University of California, Davis, and the University of Colorado conducted “test tube” experiments using doses of triclosan similar to those that animals and humans may encounter to evaluate the effects of the chemical on muscle activity, according to Science Daily. They found that the chemical hinders muscle contractions at a cellular level, slows swimming in fish, and reduces muscular strength in mice. They also found that it impairs skeletal and heart muscle contractility in living animals.

In 1998, the EPA estimated that more than 1 million pounds of triclosan are produced each year in the U.S. and that the chemical is detectable in algae, fish, and dolphins, as well as human urine, blood, and breast milk, according to Science Daily. The chemical was previously linked by the research team to other adverse health effects, such as disruption of reproductive hormone activity and cell signaling to the brain.

The Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration are conducting new risk assessments of the chemical, according to Science Daily.

The researchers concluded that the possible health risks of triclosan call for greater restrictions on its use.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by an unsafe product, contact Sokolove Law for a free legal consultation and to find out if a product liability lawyer may be able to help you. For legal help, call (800) 581-6358.

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