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HERO ID
4940326
Reference Type
Journal Article
Subtype
Review
Title
Topical n-docosanol for management of recurrent herpes labialis
Author(s)
Treister, NS; Woo, SBin
Year
2010
Is Peer Reviewed?
1
Journal
Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy
ISSN:
1465-6566
EISSN:
1744-7666
Volume
11
Issue
5
Page Numbers
853-860
Language
English
PMID
20210688
DOI
10.1517/14656561003691847
Web of Science Id
WOS:000275286000015
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.
Keywords
Herpes labialis; Antiviral agents; Reviews; Cream
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