soapy hands

Triclosan, an endocrine-disrupting chemical still found in numerous consumer products including antibacterial soaps and body washes, toothpastes, and some cosmetics, has been tied to osteoporosis in women.

Researchers analyzed data from 1,848 women in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and found that those with higher levels of triclosan in their urine were more likely to have bone issues.

This is the first time the chemical has been linked to bone health, according to the study’s authors. But it has been associated with other health issues for some time, including a decrease in the level of some thyroid hormones and increased bacterial resistance to antibiotics, according to the Federal Drug Administration. 

In recent years the FDA has prohibited manufacturers from producing and distributing triclosan antibacterial handwashes for the healthcare market, and banned triclosan in over-the-counter hand sanitizers. Other products are subject to ongoing review.

In a McKnight’s column published after the 2017 healthcare handwash ban, Megan DiGiorgio MSN, RN, clinical manager at GOJO Industries, reminded long-term care operators that the ban required manufacturers to stop selling the products within one year of the December 2017 announcement, so it’s quite possible that facilities still have some on hand. The column offers detailed suggestions on decision-making regarding stocked handwashes and the future purchase of antimicrobial handwashes.

Read the FDA’s updated triclosan fact sheet