dequalinium

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

dequalinium has antimicrobial properties and demonstrates activity against various microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and some viruses. It disrupts the integrity of microbial cell membranes, leading to cell death. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Glossalgia 

Fever 

Vaginal discharge 

Candidiasis 

Vulvovaginal pruritus 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindications: 

• Hypersensitivity 

Cautions: 

• Vaginal ulceration 
• Anionic substances

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

Not indicated 12 hours before parturition. 

Breastfeeding warnings:  

Limited data is available regarding the use in lactating women. 

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies do not show fetal risks in the first or later trimester.        
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.       
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.        
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.        
• Category N: No data for the drug under this category is available. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

dequalinium exhibits antimicrobial properties against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses. It disrupts the integrity of microbial cell membranes, leading to cell death. 

dequalinium is commonly used as an antiseptic and disinfectant agent. It is incorporated into topical formulations such as creams, ointments, mouthwashes, and lozenges to prevent or treat skin, mouth, and throat infections. 

dequalinium-containing mouthwashes and lozenges are used for oral hygiene and to treat conditions like gingivitis, stomatitis, and oral infections.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

dequalinium may aid in wound healing by promoting wound closure and reducing the risk of infection when applied to wounds, ulcers, or burns. 

dequalinium has been studied for its potential anticancer properties and modulation of ion channels, although further research is needed to establish their clinical significance. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

The absorption of dequalinium depends on the route of administration. If administered orally, it may undergo absorption from the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream. For topical formulations, dequalinium may be absorbed through the skin or mucous membranes. 

Distribution 

Once in the bloodstream, dequalinium can distribute to various tissues and organs—molecular size, lipophilicity, and protein binding influence the distribution’s extent. 

Metabolism 

The metabolic pathways and processes involved in the metabolism of dequalinium have yet to be extensively studied or documented. Metabolism generally occurs in the liver, where enzymes may transform the drug into metabolites. 

Elimination and Excretion 

dequalinium and its metabolites are eliminated from the body through excretion. The primary route of excretion is likely through renal elimination, where the drug and its metabolites are excreted in the urine. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

After inserting the vaginal tablet, it is recommended to use a sanitary towel or pantyliner to protect your clothing and maintain cleanliness. This can help manage any discharge or leakage that may occur. 

Following the treatment with dequalinium vaginal tablets, it is advised to avoid using non-latex condoms and other intravaginal devices for at least 12 hours. This prevents any potential interaction or interference between the product and these devices. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: dequalinium 

Pronounced as: de-qualin-i-um 

Why do we use dequalinium? 

dequalinium is used for its broad antimicrobial activity and antiseptic properties. It is used to treat bacterial vaginosis and minor throat infection.