Why reading labels is important
Check the Active Ingredients
The OTC market has many options for the consumer in the treatment of developing cold sores. However, the effectiveness of the labeled active ingredients in many of these products has been challenged by the FDA. Our point is, reading the labels is very important when treating any condition. Products containing benzalkonium chloride or benzocaine have had FDA warning letters issued to their manufacturers citing the concerns of benzocaine. The FDA is still investigating the uses of benzalkonium chloride.
The FDA warnings on some cold sore treatments
Benzocaine has been used for years as a topical anesthetic. However, the FDA noticed that benzocaine can cause a serious condition. Benzocaine can reduce the amount of oxygen carried through the blood. Reduced oxygen is the opposite effect needed to help cold sores heal faster. tetraVIV® Advanced Cold Sore Care attracts more white bloods cells for cold sore healing.
FDA is warning that OTC oral drug products containing benzocaine should not be used to treat infants and children under 2. Fortunately, many reputable manufacturers have revised their product labeling to address those concerns. However, some non regulated manufacturers may ignore those risks. This is especially concerning when benzalkonium chloride is used around the eyes or on the face.
FDA recognizes the proper use of the active ingredients in tetraVIV for treating cold sores
The good news is that tetraVIV patented formulation does not use benzalkonium chloride or benzocaine. Its active ingredients have been well recognized by the FDA for OTC use at the proper levels (FDA Monograph 2003). Furthermore, the lipophilic properties of propylene glycol, light mineral oil, and peppermint oil found in tetraVIV® proprietary formula offer a stable envelope for the tetracaine active and a conducive environment for healing.
tetraVIV offers superior cold sore healing
Unlike tetraVIV, the leading cold sore treatments that are challenged by the FDA and other notable publications are not alkaline, offer a questionable safe or reliable active to pain control, and are not lipophilic in nature, and are using actives that are marginal at best.
As always, it’s important to read the labels and do the research when protecting your health and caring for cold sores.
Disclaimer:
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
