August 2009 and discontinued all production of pHisoHex in September 2013). The formula for Dial soap was modified to remove hexachlorophene after the FDA ended over-the-counter availability in 1972. Bristol-Myers' discontinued Ipana toothpaste brand at one time contained hexachlorophene. Germany In Germany, cosmetics containing hexachlorophene have been banned since 1985. Austria In Austria, the sale of drugs containing the substance has been banned since 1990. Production Hexacholorophene is produced by alkylation of 2,4,5-trichlorophenol with formaldehyde. Related antiseptics are prepared similarly, e.g., bromochlorophene and dichlorophene. Safety The LD50 (oral, rat) is 59 mg/kg, indicating that the compound is relatively toxic. It is not mutagenic nor teratogenic according to Ullmann's Encyclopedia, but "embryotoxic and produces some teratogenic effects" according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer. 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzodioxin (TCDD) is always a contaminant in this compound's production. Several accidents releasing many kilograms of TCDD have been reported. The reaction between 2,4,5-trichlorophenol and formaldehyde is exothermic. If the reaction occurs without adequate cooling, TCDD is produced in significant quantities as a byproduct and contaminant. The Seveso disaster and the Times Beach, Missouri, contamination incident exemplify the industrial hazards of hexachlorophene production. Trade names Trade names for hexachlorophene include: Acigena, Almederm, AT7, AT17, Bilevon, Exofene, Fostril, Gamophen, G-11, Germa-Medica, Hexosan, K-34, Septisol, Surofene, M3. References Teratogens Chloroarenes Antiseptics Phenols