Benzalkonium chloride is an ester local anesthetic, an antiseptic and a disinfectant that blocks the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses.

It is used as a topical treatment of fever blisters and cold sores.

Benzalkonium chloride Dose in Adults

Use in the treatment of fever blister & Cold sore:

• Apply a single dose topically to cold sore with the applicator.
• Most cold sores require a single treatment, however, it may be repeated up to three times a day.

Benzalkonium chloride Dose in Childrens

Use in the treatment of fever blister and Cold sore:

• Children older than 2 years and Adolescents:
  • Apply a single dose topically to cold sore with the applicator.
  • Most cold sores require a single treatment, however, it may be repeated up to three times a day.

Benzalkonium chloride Dose in Pregnancy & Laction

Since it is applied topically over the mucosa, absorption is minimal. It may be safely used in pregnant patients and during breastfeeding.

Benzalkonium chloride Dose in Renal Disease:

Adjustment in the dose has not been recommended by the manufacturer in patients with renal disease.

Benzalkonium chloride Dose in Liver Disease:

Adjustment in the dose has not been recommended by the manufacturer in patients with liver disease.

Side effects of Benzalkonium chloride:

• Dermatologic:

  • Stinging of the skin

• Local:

  • Local irritation

Contraindication to Benzalkonium chloride include:

• Allergies to:
  • benzalkonium chloride
  • benzocaine
  • Other ester-type local anesthetics
  • Any component of the formulation

• Ophthalmic use can cause irreversible damage the corneal epithelium.
• You can use the exercise over a large area of your body or more than three times per day
• You can use it for longer than one week.

Warnings and Precautions

• Use it in the right way:

  • It should only be used for topical purposes.
  • If symptoms persist after treatment, reassess.

Monitoring Parameters:

None required.

How to administer Benzalkonium chloride?

• It is applied over a cold sore. Before its administration, the area (lips) should be cleaned with warm water and a cloth to remove all the lotions, ointments, and cosmetics.
• The applicator should be saturated with a solution and applied to a cold sore.
• After the area is numb, massage the solution with the applicator into the cold sore by rubbing it over the blister without damaging the skin.
• Brushing teeth, drinking fruit juices or drinks, and eating should be avoided for at least one hour after application.

Mechanism of action of Benzalkonium chloride:

• It acts as an ester local anesthetic and an antiseptic. 
• It works by decreasing neuronal membranes' permeability to sodiumions, resulting in inhibition of depolarization and blockage of conduction.

Benzalkonium chloride Brands in Pakistan: