What Happened to Viroxyn's Market Availability?
Consumer confusion regarding the availability of Viroxyn stems from its history. Viroxyn was originally marketed around 1999-2000. However, sales were temporarily suspended to address a request from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for additional effectiveness data. After appropriately responding to the FDA, the manufacturer, Quadex Pharmaceuticals, LLC, reintroduced the product in late 2003.
To ensure optimal usage and effectiveness, the company decided to re-launch the product exclusively through licensed healthcare professionals, primarily dentists. This shift in the distribution model meant Viroxyn was no longer available for direct consumer purchase at retail stores, leading many to assume it was discontinued.
Accessing Viroxyn Professional Use
For those interested in Viroxyn, the only way to obtain it is through a medical or dental professional. The product is not stocked on pharmacy shelves for direct sale. Patients must consult with their healthcare provider to determine if Viroxyn is an appropriate treatment option for their cold sores. If so, the professional can provide the product directly or order it for the patient.
The product is packaged with a patented, single-use applicator designed to prevent cross-contamination and ensure precise application. This professional-grade formulation contains 7.5% benzocaine for pain relief and benzalkonium chloride, a virucidal agent.
Comparing Viroxyn with Over-the-Counter (OTC) Alternatives
Because Viroxyn is not readily available to the public, many turn to OTC products. The following table provides a comparison of Viroxyn Professional Use with some common OTC cold sore treatments.
| Feature | Viroxyn Professional Use | Abreva (Docosanol) | Orajel (Benzocaine) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Availability | Professional-use-only (e.g., dentists) | Over-the-counter (OTC) | Over-the-counter (OTC) |
| Active Ingredient(s) | Benzalkonium chloride and Benzocaine | Docosanol 10% | Benzocaine (various strengths) |
| Mechanism | Virucidal action and pain relief | Antiviral, inhibits viral fusion | Anesthetic (numbing agent) |
| Application | Single-dose, specialized applicator | Apply five times daily | Apply as needed for pain |
| Best Used | At the first sign of a cold sore | At the first sign of tingling | For symptomatic pain relief |
| FDA Status | FDA-regulated OTC Monograph | FDA-approved OTC antiviral | FDA-regulated OTC Monograph |
Other Effective Cold Sore Treatments
In addition to Viroxyn and the popular OTC options, other treatments are available. These range from other OTC products to prescription medications and even some home remedies.
Over-the-Counter Options:
- Other pain relievers: Products containing benzyl alcohol, like Zilactin, can help with symptomatic relief.
- Astringents: Campho-Phenique, with camphor and phenol, can help dry out blisters.
- Skin protectants: Ointments with zinc oxide and glycine can potentially reduce healing time.
- Herbal options: Lemon balm extract ( Melissa officinalis ) has demonstrated antiviral properties.
Prescription Antivirals:
- Oral Medications: For frequent or severe outbreaks, a doctor may prescribe oral antiviral pills like valacyclovir (Valtrex), acyclovir (Zovirax), or famciclovir (Famvir). These are generally the most effective way to shorten the duration of an outbreak, especially when taken at the first sign of symptoms.
- Topical Creams: Prescription creams like acyclovir (Zovirax) or penciclovir (Denavir) are also available.
Home Remedies:
- Cold compress: Applying ice or a cold compress can help relieve pain and inflammation.
- L-lysine supplements: Some people report that taking L-lysine can help prevent or shorten outbreaks, though evidence is not definitive.
A Final Word on Viroxyn Availability
Ultimately, the key takeaway is that while Viroxyn Professional Use is still manufactured and distributed by Quadex Pharmaceuticals, it is no longer a standard over-the-counter product. Its specific availability through healthcare professionals is designed to ensure proper use, a consequence of regulatory discussions in the early 2000s. For those with cold sores, a consultation with a dentist or doctor is the most direct path to accessing Viroxyn. In the meantime, numerous highly effective and easily accessible alternatives are available at pharmacies and retail stores nationwide.
To explore the full FDA labeling information for Viroxyn Professional Use, you can refer to the entry on Drugs.com.
