Chlorphenesin is a synthetic preservative.1 It is active against various strains of Pseudomonas and Burkholderia when used in combination with methylparaben (MICs = 5-10 g/L). Chlorphenesin (0.001-0.1%) is cytotoxic to immortalized human meibomian gland epithelial cells.2 It prevents homologous passive cutaneous anaphylaxis in rats (ID50 = 220 mg/kg).3 Formulations containing chlorphenesin have been used as biocides in cosmetic products.
1.Labadie, C., Cerutti, C., and Carlin, C.Fate and control of pathogenic and spoilage micro-organisms in orange blossom (Citrus aurantium) and rose flower (Rosa centifolia) hydrosolsJ. Appl. Microbiol.121(6)1568-1579(2016) 2.Wang, J., Liu, Y., Kam, W.R., et al.Toxicity of the cosmetic preservatives parabens, phenoxyethanol and chlorphenesin on human meibomian gland epithelial cellsExp. Eye Res.196108057(2020) 3.Koda, A., Nagai, H., Watanabe, S., et al.Inhibition of hypersensitivity reactions by a new drug, N(3’,4’-dimethoxycinnamoyl) anthranilic acid (N-5’)J. Allergy Clin. Immunol.57(5)396-407(1975)