A novel surfactant nanoemulsion with a unique non-irritant topical antimicrobial activity against bacteria, enveloped viruses and fungi

A novel non-ionic surfactant nanoemulsion designated 8N8 has been tested fo r its biocidal activity. One percent 8N8 produced effective bactericidal ac tivity against Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Vibrio cholerae in 15 minutes. In contrast, most enteric Gram-negative bacteria were resistant to 8N8. One percent 8N8 was also virucidal within 15 minutes for all tested e nveloped viruses, including Herpes simplex type 1, influenza A and vaccinia viruses. One percent 8N8 also demonstrated fungistatic activity on Candida albicans. The rapid and non-specific inactivation of vegetative bacteria a nd enveloped viruses, in addition to its fungistatic activity and low toxic ity in experimental animals, makes 8N8 a potential candidate for use as a t opical biocidal agent.