Hexylresorcinol has got local anesthetic and antiseptic properties that is 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:

• Oral: Lozenge:
  • One lozenge can be taken every two hours as required to a maximum of ten lozenges per day.

Dose in Children:

Refer to adults dosing.

Pregnancy Risk Category: N

• It has not yet been tested in pregnant or lactating women. 
• Because the drug is not easily absorbed, it is unlikely that topical application will cause adverse maternal outcomes or systemic maternal effects.
• It has not been shown to cause adverse infantile outcomes in lactating mothers. 
• It may cause colic, bloating, intestinal spasms, and diarrhea in infants, according to the theory.

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:

• Allergy reactions to hexylresorcinol and any component of this formulation
• Other than allergic reactions, there have not been any contraindications. 
• Each drug product may have its own contraindications, depending on the ingredients. 
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Hexylresorcinol: Drug Interaction

Monitoring Parameters:

• None mentioned.
• Monitor the response to treatment. Patients who use the lozenges for sore throat should monitor other signs suggestive of infection like fever, cough, and body aches and consult a healthcare provider.
• A sore throat may be indicative of an underlying serious infection like coronavirus infection or bacterial pharyngitis.

How to administer?

• The lozenges are allowed to dissolve slowly.
• It should not be swallowed directly.
• Other topical creams and antiseptic solutions containing the drug should be applied as directed by the manufacturer.

Mechanism of action of Hexylresorcinol:

• It is an antiseptic and has local anesthetic properties. 
• It is an antioxidant that enhances the activity of enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase or glutathione reductase.
• It is antiviral, antihelminthic and has antiseptic properties.

International Brand Names:

• Nyal Medithroat Anaesthetic Lozenges
• Oxana

Brand Names in Pakistan:

No Brands Available in Pakistan.