DOCOSANOL
TYPE OF INGREDIENT
Antiviral
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Creams for cold sore treatment
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF DOCOSANOL?
Docosanol, a saturated fatty alcohol, is primarily known for its effectiveness in treating cold sores (herpes simplex labialis). As an active ingredient in topical treatments, docosanol helps to shorten the healing time and alleviate symptoms associated with cold sores.
One of the key benefits of docosanol is its ability to inhibit the fusion of the herpes simplex virus with human cells, thereby preventing the virus from replicating and spreading. This action helps to reduce the duration and severity of cold sore outbreaks.
Additionally, docosanol has emollient properties, which means it can help to soothe and moisturize the skin, providing relief from the discomfort associated with cold sores.
WHAT IS TOPICAL DOCOSANOL?
Topical docosanol is a cream applied directly to the affected area at the first sign of a cold sore. It is most effective when used early in the outbreak. The standard concentration for topical docosanol is 10%, as found in many over-the-counter treatments.
Docosanol is synthesized from long-chain fatty acids and is included in formulations designed to target and treat viral infections of the skin, especially herpes simplex labialis.
IS TOPICAL DOCOSANOL SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?
Topical docosanol is generally considered safe for most skin types and tones. It is FDA-approved for topical treatment of cold sores. Given its mechanism of action as a mild irritant, docosanol may cause irritant dermatitis in certain individuals. Individuals should also consult a healthcare provider to ensure a correct diagnosis of herpes simplex prior to applying docosanol on any lesions.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Topical docosanol is well-tolerated by most individuals. However, it should not be used by individuals who are allergic to docosanol or any of its inactive ingredients.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: While docosanol has not been officially assigned a pregnancy category due to lack of formal data, the compound is theoretically safe due to its biochemical properties as a fatty acid. Individuals seeking to use this compound during pregnancy or breastfeeding should still consult with a healthcare provider prior to application to ensure safety.
Sources:
Leung DT, Sacks SL. Docosanol: a topical antiviral for herpes labialis. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2004 Dec;5(12):2567-71.
Sacks SL, Thisted RA, Jones TM, Barbarash RA, Mikolich DJ, Ruoff GE, Jorizzo JL, Gunnill LB, Katz DH, Khalil MH, Morrow PR, Yakatan GJ, Pope LE, Berg JE; Docosanol 10% Cream Study Group. Clinical efficacy of topical docosanol 10% cream for herpes simplex labialis: A multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2001 Aug;45(2):222-30.
Habbema L, De Boulle K, Roders GA, Katz DH. n-Docosanol 10% cream in the treatment of recurrent herpes labialis: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Acta Derm Venereol. 1996 Nov;76(6):479-81.
