Topical n-docosanol for management of recurrent herpes labialis.
BACKGROUND
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.


METHODS
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.


RESULTS
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.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
Treister
Nathaniel S
NS
Division of Oral Medicine and Dentistry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA. ntreister@partners.org
Woo
Sook-Bin
SB
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D000818:Animals; D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D017277:Drug Approval; D005233:Fatty Alcohols / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006560:Herpes Labialis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000821:virology; D006801:Humans; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs; D012008:Recurrence; D014481:United States; D014486:United States Food and Drug Administration
D000998:Antiviral Agents; D005233:Fatty Alcohols; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs; C529236:docosanol