Surfactants topical antibacterials

As surfactants alter the permeability of mammalian cells it is not too surprising that, in spite of the differences between bacterial cell walls and mammalian cell membranes, some surfactants have the ability to increase the permeability of the bacterial cell wall or to act synergistically with antibacterial agents. There are several unique facets to discussion of this topic some surfactants have antibacterial properties and some antibacterial agents have surface-active properties. In considering the subject one has to be aware, as before, of surfactant antibacterial interactions, the influence of surfactant on the performance of the dosage form or formulation, and surfactant-cell wall interactions. 

Potassium sorbate is an antimicrobial preservative, with antibacterial and antifungal properties used in pharmaceuticals, foods, enteral preparations, and cosmetics. Generally, it is used at concentrations of 0.1-0.2% in oral and topical formulations, especially those containing nonionic surfactants. Potassium sorbate has been used to enhance the ocular bioavailability of timolol. 

Uses Antibacterial, preservative, wetting agent, solubilizer in cosmetics, emulsions, cough syrups, lozenges, topical sol ns. antimicrobial, antistat, deodorant agent, emulsifier, surfactant in cosmetics topical anti-infective antiseptic in pharmaceuticals Use Level 0.1%... 

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