Do antibacterials contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance?
The Alliance for Prudent use of Antibiotics has a clear answer to this question as well as details of scientific studies in this area. In summary, the non-residue producing antibacterials such as alcohol and peroxides are not thought to cause resistance as they have such a rapid killing effect. However, when the residue-producing antibacterials are used in low level concentrations (e.g. those used in some household products), it has been suggested that they may contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance although much more research is needed to determine the potential role of these agents in the development of antibiotic resistance.
