Topical n-docosanol for management of recurrent herpes labialis.

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Treister NS, Woo SB

Topical n-docosanol for management of recurrent herpes labialis.

Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2010 Apr;11(5):853-60. doi: 10.1517/14656561003691847.

PubMed ID

20210688 [ View in PubMed

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Abstract

IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD: Recurrent herpes labialis (RHL) is a significant disorder with social and health consequences that affects upwards of 20 - 40% of the adult population. Docosanol is the only FDA-approved topical agent that is available over the counter for management of RHL. Its mechanism of action is unique compared with other available antiviral agents. AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW: The authors conducted a comprehensive search of the published preclinical and clinical literature on topical docosanol for RHL. All of the published literature relating to docosanol and its use for the management of recurrent herpes labialis was reviewed, from the first report of docosanol to 31 January 2010. WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN: The objective of this review was to summarize and critically evaluate the available literature with respect to topical docosanol's mechanism, safety and efficacy in the management of RHL. TAKE HOME MESSAGE: Ten percent docosanol cream is a safe and effective topical treatment for the management of RHL in immunocompetent adults, with essentially equivalent efficacy compared with other available prescription topical antiviral agents. Owing to its unique mechanism of action, there is little to no risk of developing resistance.

DrugBank Data that Cites this Article

Drug Targets

Drug	Target	Kind	Organism	Pharmacological Action	Actions
Docosanol	Envelope glycoprotein GP350	Protein	HHV-4	Yes	Intercalation	Details