Drug Groups

approved; investigational

Description

Docosanol is a drug used for topical treatment for recurrent herpes simplex labialis episodes (episodes of cold sores or fever blisters). A saturated 22-carbon aliphatic alcohol, docosanol exhibits antiviral activity against many lipid enveloped viruses including herpes simplex virus (HSV). Docosanol inhibits fusion between the plasma membrane and the herpes simplex virus (HSV) envelope, thereby preventing viral entry into cells and subsequent viral replication.

Indication

For the topical treatment of recurrent oral-facial herpes simplex episodes (cold sores or fever blisters).

Pharmacology

Docosanol is a saturated 22-carbon aliphatic alcohol which exhibits antiviral activity against many lipid enveloped viruses including herpes simplex virus (HSV). Docosanol speeds the healing of cold sores and fever blisters on the face or lips. It also relieves the accompanying symptoms, including tingling, pain, burning, and itching. Docosanol cannot, however, prevent cold sores or fever blisters from appearing.

Toxicity

Symptoms of overdose include headache, abdominal pain, increased serum lipase, nausea, dyspepsia, dizziness, and hyperbilirubinemia.

Affected Organisms

Absorption

Topical absorption has been shown to be minimal under conditions reflecting normal clinical use.

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