Chemical Properties
white to light yellow crystal powde
Uses
An surgical antiseptic.
Definition
ChEBI: A member of the class of benzyl alcohols that is benzyl alcohol in which the hydrogens at positions 2 and 4 are replaced by chlorines.
General Description
2,4-Dichlorobenzyl alcohol is a constituent of commercially available lozenges for acute sore throat caused by upper respiratory tract infections.
Mechanism of action
In-vitro evidence has demonstrated the virucidal effect of Amylmetacresol (AMC) and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol (DCBA) on a number of viruses associated with the common cold; a reduction in viral load is believed to have benefits in reducing the symptoms. The local anesthetic action of AMC/DCBA throat lozenges, a combination of the potent channel blocker – AMC and the reduced potency for sodium channel blockade DCBA – attenuate the effects of AMC, possibly as a result of competitive binding, which acts on a sodium channel blocker, and may be effective in relieving symptoms due to inflammation. Therefore, AMC/DCBA throat lozenge is thought to represent a useful option to meet patients' needs and avoid unnecessary prescription of antibiotics[1].
Clinical Use
Amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol throat lozenges have been marketed in many countries worldwide for pain relief in acute sore throat. Amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol throat lozenges have been shown to be safe and efficient in relieving of acute sore throat symptoms, and it produces an immediate symptomatic relief. Local symptomatic pain relief plays an important role in managing acute sore throat[1-2].
Side effects
COMMON SIDE EFFECTS: Difficulty in breathing, Tongue soreness, Hypersensitivity reactions, Swelling of the face, Tongue, Throat and Neck.
References
[1] Ting W Tan. “Effectiveness of amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol throat lozenges in patients with acute sore throat due to upper respiratory tract infection: a systematic review protocol.” JBI database of systematic reviews and implementation reports (2017): 862–872.
[2] Thomas, Michael J. “ACP Journal Club. Amylmetacresol and 2, 4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol lozenges were better than placebo lozenges for relief of acute sore throat.” Annals of Internal Medicine 153 4 (2010): JC2-6.
