A new broad spectrum antibacterial soap I. General properties

The first soap germicide system to show activity against gram‐negative organisms is described. Addition of a new germicidal agent, 2‐hydroxy‐2′,4,4′‐trichlorodiphenyl ether, combination of hexachlorophene and triclocarban which has been used in a soap known to be effective against gram‐positive organisms, has broadened its antibacterial spectrum without impairing its mildness, safety and other desirable bar soap characteristics. Properties of the new system, including in vitro and in vivo tests of its antibacterial activity, efficacy and safety, are discussed.