Names | |
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Systematic IUPAC name
4-chloro-3,5-dimethylphenol
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Other names
para-chloro-meta-xylenol (PCMX), Dettol
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Identifiers | |
3D model (Jmol)
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1862539 | |
ChEBI | |
ChemSpider | |
ECHA InfoCard | 100.001.631 |
EC Number | 201-793-8 |
KEGG | |
MeSH | chloroxylenol |
PubChem CID
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RTECS number | ZE6850000 |
UNII | |
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Properties | |
C8H9ClO | |
Molar mass | 156.61 g·mol−1 |
Melting point | 114 to 116 °C (237 to 241 °F; 387 to 389 K) |
log P | 3.377 |
Acidity (pKa) | 9.76 |
Basicity (pKb) | 4.24 |
Pharmacology | |
D08AE05 (WHO) | |
Hazards | |
GHS pictograms | |
GHS signal word | WARNING |
H302, H315, H317, H319 | |
P280, P305+351+338 | |
EU classification (DSD)
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Xn |
R-phrases | R22, R36/38, R43 |
S-phrases | (S2), S24, S37 |
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
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Infobox references | |
Chloroxylenol, also known as para-chloro-meta-xylenol (PCMX), is an antiseptic and disinfectant which is used for skin disinfection and cleaning surgical instruments. It is also used within a number of household disinfectants and wound cleaner. It is less effective than some other avaliable agents. It is available as a liquid.
Side effects are generally few but can include skin irritation. It may be used mixed with water or alcohol. Chloroxylenol is most effective against Gram-positive bacteria. It works by disruption of the cell wall and stopping the function of enzymes.
Chloroxylenol was first made in 1927. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system. The wholesale cost in the developing world is about 2.00 to 6.20 USD per liter of 5% solution. It is sold in a number of formulations and under a number of brand names including Dettol.
It is used in hospitals and households for disinfection and sanitation. It is also commonly used in antibacterial soaps, wound-cleansing applications and household antiseptics such as Dettol liquid (to which it contributes its distinctive odor), cream and ointments.
Chloroxylenol is not significantly toxic to humans, is practically non-toxic to birds, and is moderately toxic to freshwater invertebrates. It is highly toxic to fish and cats and should not be used around them. It is a mild skin irritant and may trigger allergic reactions in some individuals.