Hexylresorcinol is a chemical compound that belongs to the class of organic compounds known as benzenediols. It is specifically classified as a resorcinol, which is a type of dihydroxy benzene. The chemical formula for hexylresorcinol is C12H18O2.

Hexylresorcinol is used in various applications, including as an antiseptic and disinfectant. It has antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it suitable for use in pharmaceuticals and personal care products. In some cases, it is used as a preservative in food and cosmetics.

One notable application of hexylresorcinol is its use in throat lozenges and oral care products due to its antiseptic properties. It is also found in some over-the-counter sore throat medications.

Hexylresorcinol has got local anesthetic and antiseptic properties that are used as a first aid to treat minor skin infections and sore throat (as mouth wash and lozenges) It is one of the ingredients of many common topical cosmetic and antiaging creams and is being studied as a preventive anticancer agent.

Hexylresorcinol Uses:

• It is a minor antiseptic and local anesthetic agent used for the symptomatic relief of sore throat.
• It may be used as a topical antiseptic for minor cuts or abrasions.

Hexylresorcinol Dose in Adults

Dose as OTC treatment for Sore throat:

How much to take:

• Use a lozenge (a type of throat medicine).
• Take one lozenge every 2 hours if needed.

Important Points:

• Don't take more than 10 lozenges in one day.

Dose in Children:

Refer to adults dosing.

Pregnancy Risk Category: N

• This medicine hasn't been tested on pregnant or breastfeeding women yet.
• Since the drug doesn't easily get into the body, using it on the skin is not likely to harm pregnant women or affect the whole body.
• There's no evidence that it causes problems for babies if their moms use it while breastfeeding.
• However, some people think it might lead to issues like colic, bloating, intestinal spasms, and diarrhea in infants, but this is just a theory and not proven.

Dose in Renal Disease:

No dosage adjustments mentioned.

Dose in liver disease:

No dosage adjustments mentioned.

Side effects of Hexylresorcinol:

Patients may notice any of the following adverse drug-related reactions. However, most side effects are due to a combination of the ingredients.

• Euphoria
• restlessness
• anxiety
• confusion
• apprehension
• visual blurring
• dizziness and vertigo
• tinnitus
• local irritation and feeling of cold.

Contraindications to Hexylresorcinol:

• If you're hypersensitive to hexylresorcinol or any part of the medicine, it means you could be very sensitive or allergic to this substance or other things in the medicine.
• In these situations, it's really important not to use anything with hexylresorcinol because it might cause an allergic reaction.
• Allergic reactions can be serious, so it's best to avoid using products that have this ingredient if you know you're sensitive to it.

Hexylresorcinol: Drug Interaction

Monitoring Parameters:

• If you're using these lozenges for a sore throat, it's important to pay attention to how your body responds.
• Keep an eye out for other signs of infection, such as fever, cough, and body aches.
• If you notice these symptoms, it's crucial to talk to a healthcare provider because a sore throat could be a sign of a more serious infection like coronavirus or bacterial pharyngitis.
• Monitoring your symptoms and seeking medical advice if things don't improve or if you notice additional signs of infection is essential for your overall health.

How to administer?

• When using the lozenges, let them dissolve slowly in your mouth; don't swallow them directly.
• The proper way to use other topical creams and antiseptic solutions with this drug is to follow the instructions given by the manufacturer.
• Applying them as directed ensures that you get the intended benefits and use them safely and effectively.

Mechanism of action of Hexylresorcinol:

• This substance acts as both an antiseptic and a local anesthetic, meaning it helps fight against germs and can numb a specific area.
• Additionally, it functions as an antioxidant, boosting the activity of enzymes like glutathione peroxidase or glutathione reductase.
• In addition to its antiseptic properties, it also possesses antiviral and antihelminthic (against parasitic worms) characteristics.
• This makes it a versatile compound with various potential uses in addressing infections and providing relief in specific conditions.

International Brand Names:

• Nyal Medithroat Anaesthetic Lozenges
• Oxana

Hexylresorcinol Brand Names in Pakistan:

No Brands Available in Pakistan.