Generic Name: hexylresorcinol
Brand Name: Sucrets Original Formula Sore Throat
Drug Class: Anesthetics, Oropharyngeal; Antiseptic, Topical
What is hexylresorcinol, and what is it used for?
Hexylresorcinol is a medication taken for temporary relief of minor irritation, pain or soreness in the mouth and throat. Hexylresorcinol is available over-the-counter (OTC) as oral solutions or as lozenges that dissolve slowly in the mouth. Hexylresorcinol is often a component of topical antiseptic applications used for minor skin infections. In addition, hexylresorcinol is commonly found in anti-aging creams and is being studied for use in anti-cancer therapy.
Hexylresorcinol works as a local anesthetic to relieve oral and throat pain caused by throat inflammation (pharyngitis). Hexylresorcinol is believed to block sodium channels in nerve cells (neurons) which inhibits the generation and conduction of nerve signals that transmit pain.
Hexylresorcinol also has mild antiseptic activity, which makes it useful as an OTC drug for immediate relief.
Hexylresorcinol may also inhibit oxidative DNA damage by enhancing the activity of natural antioxidant enzymes in the body. Ongoing studies indicate that hexylresorcinol may suppress the growth of squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer, however these uses require further research.
Warnings
- Do not use if you have hypersensitivity to hexylresorcinol or any of its components.
- Avoid use in children younger than 6 years of age, lozenges can be a choking hazard.
- Stop self-medication with OTC hexylresorcinol and seek medical help if mouth or throat pain lasts longer than 7 days.
- Do not self-medicate for longer than 2 days if you have severe sore throat, if sore throat is accompanied by fever, rash, nausea or vomiting, or if symptoms worsen.
- Do not apply hexylresorcinol antiseptic in your eyes or extensive areas on your body.
What are the side effects of hexylresorcinol?
Side effects of hexylresorcinol include:
- Skin irritation from topical use
Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms or serious side effects while using this drug:
- Serious heart symptoms include fast or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, shortness of breath, and sudden dizziness;
- Severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, severe weakness, vomiting, loss of coordination, feeling unsteady;
- Severe nervous system reaction with very stiff muscles, high fever, sweating, confusion, fast or uneven heartbeats, tremors, and feeling like you might pass out; or
- Serious eye symptoms include blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights.
This is not a complete list of all side effects or adverse reactions that may occur from the use of this drug. Call your doctor for medical advice about serious side effects or adverse reactions. You may also report side effects or health problems to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
QUESTION
Which illness is known as a viral upper respiratory tract infection? See AnswerWhat are the dosages of hexylresorcinol?
Lozenge
- 2.4 mg
Solution
Oral
Topical antiseptic
Pharyngitis
Adults and children over 6 years
- Indicated for temporary relief following occasional mouth and throat symptoms including minor irritation, pain, sore mouth, and sore throat
Lozenge
- Allow lozenge to dissolve slowly in the mouth; may be repeated every 2 hours as needed
- Not to exceed 10 lozenges/day
Solution
- Apply to the affected area or gargle and swish for 1 minute, then expectorate; may use up to 4 times daily or as directed by the health care provider
Children under 6 years
- Safety and efficacy not established (lozenge may be a choking hazard)
Topical Antiseptic
- First aid antiseptic to protect minor cuts, scrapes, or burns from skin infection
- Apply small amount to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily
Health News
- 5,000+ Measles Cases Threaten Canada’s Elimination Status
- Home Exercises Ease Knee Arthritis Pain
- Puberty: The Signs, Stages & When to See a Doctor
- Medical Debt May Soon Return to Credit Reports
- Sitting For Long Periods? Sip Cocoa Or Munch Berries To Protect Heart Health, Experts Say
More Health News »
Overdose
- Hexylresorcinol oral overdose may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation.
- In case of overdose, discontinue the drug and if symptoms don’t resolve seek medical help or contact Poison Control.
What drugs interact with hexylresorcinol?
Inform your doctor of all medications you are currently taking, who can advise you on any possible drug interactions. Never begin taking, suddenly discontinue, or change the dosage of any medication without your doctor’s recommendation.
- Hexylresorcinol has no known severe, serious, moderate, or mild interactions with other drugs.
The drug interactions listed above are not all of the possible interactions or adverse effects. For more information on drug interactions, visit the RxList Drug Interaction Checker.
It is important to always tell your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider of all prescription and over-the-counter medications you use, as well as the dosage for each, and keep a list of the information.
Check with your doctor or health care provider if you have any questions about the medication.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- It is not known if hexylresorcinol can cause fetal harm if used by pregnant women, or if it is present in breast milk.
- Check with your healthcare provider before taking any OTC medication including hexylresorcinol if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Summary
Hexylresorcinol is a medication taken for temporary relief of minor irritation, pain, or soreness in the mouth and throat. Side effects of hexylresorcinol include skin irritation from topical use. Hexylresorcinol is often a component of topical antiseptic applications used for minor skin infections. Avoid use in children younger than 6 years of age, lozenges can be a choking hazard. Stop self-medication with OTC hexylresorcinol and seek medical help if mouth or throat pain lasts longer than 7 days.
Multimedia: Slideshows, Images & Quizzes
-
Sore Throat or Strep Throat? How to Tell the DifferenceIs this a sore throat or could it be strep throat? Explore the causes of a sore throat, including strep throat, and learn how to...
-
Cold, Flu, and Cough: 13 Foods to Eat When Fighting the FluThe best foods to eat when you have the flu soothe symptoms and help you feel better faster. Good foods to eat with the flu...
-
Skin Infections: Types, Causes, and SymptomsViruses, bacteria, and fungi can all cause skin infections. What is scabies? Learn about golden staph infections, cellulitis,...
-
Cold Sores Causes, Remedies, & DiagnosisHow do you get rid of cold sores? First learn about the herpes virus and how it causes cold sores. When are cold sores...
-
Fungal Skin Infections: Types, Symptoms, and TreatmentFungal skin infections and fungal nail infections produce symptoms like red, itchy, circular rashes and thick, discolored, flaky...
-
Cold, Fever and Flu Symptoms in Children: Medications and Home RemediesHow long does a cold last? How long is a cold contagious? Colds and fevers are some of the most common ailments in children....
-
Cold and Flu: What Doctors Do to Boost Their Immune SystemsHow can you make your immune system stronger? Why not try what the pros try?
-
Picture of Panniculitis from ColdPanniculitis is an inflammation of the fat beneath the outer layer of skin, leaving the area red and tender. In this case, the...
-
Common Cold Quiz: Test Your Medical IQTake this quiz to learn the truth behind the infectious, contagious, uncomfortable disease known as the common cold. Test your...
-
Cold & Flu Quiz: Influenza vs. Common ColdAches? Pain? Fever? This Cold & Flu Quiz tests your knowledge on the difference between coming down with the common cold and...
-
Strep (Streptococcal) Throat Infection Quiz: Test Your Infectious Disease IQTake the Strep (Streptococcal) Throat Infection Quiz to learn about causes, symptoms, treatments, prevention methods, diagnosis,...
-
Picture of Herpes Blister (Cold Sore)Cold sores (fever blisters) are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), passed on through contact with infected skin or body...
-
Why Do I Have the Chills? Reasons Other Than FeverChills and fever often come as a combo, but sometimes chills happen with a normal temperature. Find out what could be behind...
-
Cold and Flu: Finding Fast Cough ReliefRemedies for coughing to relieve symptoms, thin mucus, and clear phlegm include cough syrup and honey in hot water. Use...
-
Picture of Cold Sores TreatmentYou can't cure HSV or a cold sore, but you can alleviate the pain it causes by avoiding spicy or acidic foods, applying ice, and...
-
Picture of Cold Sore and Canker SoreCold sores and canker sores aren't the same. See a picture of Cold Sore and Canker Sore and learn more about the health topic.
-
Picture of Cold Sore Between Nose and MouthCan a cold sore appear somewhere other than your lip? They are not as common, but cold sores can appear anywhere on the face,...
-
Picture of Strep ThroatStrep infection often produces a distinct pattern of white patches in the throat and on the tonsils, as well as red swollen...
-
How to Get Rid of a Cold: Natural RemediesWhat home remedies work to get rid of a cold fast? Many claim cold symptoms and flu symptoms can be relieved with Echinacea,...
-
Picture of Cold Sores (Fever Blisters)Cold sores, sometimes called fever blisters, are groups of small blisters on the lip and around the mouth. See a picture of Cold...
-
Cold, Flu, & Cough: Symptoms of Immune System ProblemsYour immune system is your main line of defense against infection and illness. Learn the warning signs that yours isn’t working...
-
Cold, Flu, and Cough: Things That Suppress Your Immune SystemA strong immune system is your best protection against infections and illnesses. Find out what can weaken that defense.
-
Strep Throat: Symptoms and Treatments for this Contagious ConditionStrep throat symptoms in adult and kids may be accompanied by a fever, rash and may lead to more serious complications. Strep...
-
Cold, Flu, & Cough: How to Clean After IllnessThis slideshow gives you a room-by-room look at how and what to disinfect after someone in your family has been sick.
-
How to Prevent the Common ColdWhat home remedies work for the common cold? The common cold is arguably the most common human illness. Learn how long the common...
-
Healthy Living: Ways to Warm Up if You’re Always ColdAlways shivering when others aren't? Here are some tips for warming up if you’re a "cold-natured" person.
-
Germs: Everyday Items with the Most BacteriaExplore the germiest places you may encounter daily. Bacteria is everywhere. Learn tips to avoid germs and bacteria in public...
-
A Cold or The Flu? How to Tell the DifferenceDiscover the difference between cold vs. flu symptoms. Learn the difference between cold and flu symptoms. Read about cold and...
-
Cold, Flu, and Cough: How to Avoid Infectious DiseasesThe right habits will lower your chances of catching an infectious disease. Learn what you can do to help yourself stay healthy.
-
Home Remedies for Sick ChildrenHome remedies for sick babies, toddlers, and kids can help with things like colds, flu, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, fever,...
-
Nasal Irrigation: Natural Relief for Cold & Allergy SymptomsClogged sinuses and congestion bothering you? Nasal irrigation can relieve sinus symptoms associated with colds and allergies....
-
Cold and Flu: The Truth About Hand SanitizerHand sanitizers are a convenient way to kill germs. But do they really work? Here's what we found.
Related Disease Conditions
-
How Do I Know If My Sore Throat Is Viral or Bacterial?It's seldom easy to tell the difference between bacterial and viral sore throats. Find out what the differences are and learn some tips for telling them apart. A sore throat is irritation and scratchiness in the throat accompanied by pain that often worsens with swallowing. The most common cause of a sore throat is a viral infection. Rarely, a bacterial infection can cause a sore throat. Antibiotics cannot treat a sore throat if it is caused by a viral infection. Viruses cause about 90% of sore throats; hence, antibiotics should not be used immediately as treatment for a sore throat. A doctor may prescribe antibiotics such as penicillin if a sore throat is caused by a bacterial infection.
-
Sore Throat Home RemediesNatural and home remedies for sore throat symptoms and pain relief include essential oils, licorice gargles, slippery elm leaves, raw garlic, Throat Coat tea, sage, and acupuncture. Typical symptoms of a sore throat include throat pain, coughing, sneezing, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Sore throats are caused by viral (common cold, flu, mumps), bacterial (tonsillitis, some STDs), toxins, allergens, trauma or injury, or "mechanical causes" (breathing through the mouth).
-
Pimple vs. Cold Sore: Differences and SimilaritiesPimples are areas of skin inflammation with pus in the center. Cold sores are fluid-filled blisters. Pimples are caused by bacterial overgrowth and inflammation. Cold sores are caused by infection with herpes simplex viruses (HSV-1 and HSV-2). Benzoyl peroxide and sometimes antibiotics treat acne. Antiviral medications accelerate the healing process of oral herpes.
-
Cold and Cough Medicine for Infants and ChildrenThe safety of giving infants and children over-the-counter (OTC) cold and cough medicine is important for caregivers to understand. While there is no "gold standard" recommendation for giving infants and children OTC cold and cough medicine for fever, aches, cough, and runny nose, a few standards have been recommended.
-
What Kills a Sore Throat Fast?How do you kill or fix a sore throat immediately? Learn how long sore throats last and get home remedies for fast sore throat relief. Learn quick and effective ways to ease your sore throat pain.
-
Sore ThroatSore throat (throat pain) usually is described as pain or discomfort in the throat area. A sore throat may be caused by bacterial infections, viral infections, toxins, irritants, trauma, or injury to the throat area. Common symptoms of a sore throat include a fever, cough, runny nose, hoarseness, earaches, sneezing, and body aches. Home remedies for a sore throat include warm soothing liquids and throat lozenges. OTC remedies for a sore throat include OTC pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Antibiotics may be necessary for some cases of sore throat.
-
Is Strep Throat Contagious?Strep throat is caused by group A streptococcus bacteria. Incubation period for strep throat is 1-5 days after exposure. If strep throat is treated with antibiotics, it is no longer contagious after 24 hours; if it is not treated with antibiotics, it is contagious for 2-3 weeks. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, tonsillitis, white spots or patches on the tonsils, and nausea and vomiting. Diagnosis of strep throat is performed through a rapid strep test.
-
Do Cold Sores Mean You Have an STD?Having a cold sore does not necessarily mean you have an STD. Most cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which typically is not transmitted by sexual contact.
-
Cold Sores (Oral Herpes, Herpes Labialis)Cold sores (labial herpes) are caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 infection and often appear on the mouth and lips. Read about treatment causes, symptoms, treatment, and diagnosis of oral herpes.
-
Is Sore Throat (Pharyngitis) Contagious?Pharyngitis is a contagious infection that can spread from one person to another. Depending on the cause of your sore throat, you may be more or less contagious. Evaluation from a healthcare provider can help diagnose the cause of your sore throat.
-
Common ColdThe common cold (viral upper respiratory tract infection) is a contagious illness that may be caused by various viruses. Symptoms include a stuffy nose, headache, cough, sore throat, and sometimes a fever.
-
Strep ThroatStrep throat is a bacterial infection of the throat. Signs and symptoms of strep throat include headache, nausea, vomiting, sore throat, and fever. Strep throat symptoms in infants and children are different than in adults. Strep throat is contagious and is generally passed from person to person. Treatment for strep throat symptoms includes home remedies and OTC medication; however, the only cure for strep throat is antibiotics.
-
Home Remedies for Sore ThroatSeveral home remedies may cure pain and other symptoms associated with a sore throat. However, it is imperative to note that these are not effective against bacterial infections, such as strep throat.
-
COVID-19 vs. Flu vs. ColdWhen you're feeling sick, it can be difficult to distinguish the symptoms of a COVID-19 infection from the symptoms of the common cold or the flu (influenza). While fever is common with the flu and COVID-19, sneezing is typically only associated with colds. Though sore throats are typical with colds, they are uncommon with COVID-19 infections and the flu.
-
Safe Cold Flu Drugs for DiabeticsIf you have diabetes and catch a cold or the flu, can be more difficult to recover from infections and their complications, for example, pneumonia. Home remedies and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs used for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of colds and the flu may affect blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Some medications are OK to take if you have diabetes get a cold or the flu including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs, like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Motrin) to control symptoms of fever and pain. Most cough syrups are safe to take; however, check with your pediatrician to see what medications are safe to give your child if he or she has type 1 or 2 diabetes. If you have diabetes and are sick with a cold or flu, you need to check your blood sugar levels more frequently. Continue taking your regular medications. Eat a diabetic low-glycemic index diet rich in antioxidants. To prevent colds and the flu drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day. To replenish fluids, drink sports drinks like Gatorade and Pedialyte to replenish electrolytes. Avoid people who are sick, sneezing, coughing, or have other symptoms of a cold or flu.
-
Genital Herpes and Cold Sores: 10 Myths and FactsGenital herpes and cold sores (oral herpes) are the names given to two types of infection caused by the two types of herpes simplex virus (HSV): HSV-1 and HSV-2.
-
Can You Take Tylenol Cold and Flu While Breastfeeding?Tylenol is a well-known brand of acetaminophen and it is safe and effective for fever and pain.A void combined products like Tylenol Cold and Flu while you are breastfeeding.
-
Effective Home Remedies To Kill a Sore Throat FastLearn what's causing your sore throat, home remedies that can provide relief fast, and what other treatments can help to relieve your symptoms.
-
Is It Common to Get a Cold During Early Pregnancy?It is common to get a cold and the flu during pregnancy. Find out if it affects the baby and how to take care of yourself.
-
How Long Is a Cold or Flu Contagious?Viruses cause the common cold and the flu. Early symptoms and signs for a cold and the flu are similar, however, flu symptoms are typically more severe than cold symptoms. Cold and flu viruses are transmitted typically via coughing or sneezing.
-
How Do You Treat a Cold Sore in Your Nose?Cold sores are a type of blister that may show up clear and then become cloudy. Treat a cold sore under your nose with home remedies, topical creams and ointments, and prescription medications.
-
What Causes Strep Throat and How Long Does It Last?Strep throat is a contagious infection that can be very uncomfortable. Learn the signs of strep throat, what causes strep throat, how doctors diagnose strep throat, and how doctors can treat strep throat.
-
Cold, Flu, Allergy TreatmentsBefore treating a cold, the flu, or allergies with over-the-counter (OTC) medications, it's important to know what's causing the symptoms, which symptoms one wishes to relieve, and the active ingredients in the OTC product. Taking products that only contain the medications needed for relieving your symptoms prevents ingestion of unnecessary medications and reduces the chances of side effects.
-
Are Cold Sores the Same as Herpes?What is the difference between cold sores and herpes? Cold sores are painful, unsightly sores that usually pop up around your mouth. Certain medications, home care and alternative therapies may help you get rid of cold sores fast.
-
Adenovirus 14 (Killer Cold Virus)Adenovirus infection, particularly Ad14, or the "killer cold virus" has been on the increase in the past two years. Symptoms range from those experienced with colds, sore throat, bronchitis, pneumonia, diarrhea, pinkeye, fever, bladder infection, and neurological conditions. Diagnosis and treatment options need to be discussed with your physician.
-
How Can I Get Rid of a Cold While Breastfeeding?The common cold is a viral infection that affects your nose and throat. There is no cure for the cold while breastfeeding, so you’ll need to give it time to clear up.
-
How Can I Get Rid of Strep Throat Fast?Most sore throats are caused by viruses, however, in some cases, the sore throat might be caused by bacteria called group A Streptococcus (group A strep). Learn what medical treatments can help ease your strep throat symptoms and speed up your recovery. Sore throats are usually caused by viruses (such as cold or flu) or from smoking. Very occasionally they can be caused by bacteria. Your doctor may advise and prescribe antibiotics for you when you have a bacterial infection or pus in your throat.
-
How Cold Is Too Cold to Go Outside?Human body is capable of maintaining a steady core temperature between 97°F and 99°F. However, it is essential to layer up in cold weather and wear comfortable clothes in warm weather, so that we stay protected from extremes of temperature.
-
Are Cold Sores Contagious?About 20% of cases of cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), and approximately 80% of cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Cold sores are transmitted by sharing utensils and razors, kissing, and oral sex. There is no cure for cold sores.
-
Common Cold: Early Signs and 4 StagesThe common cold or viral rhinitis is an upper respiratory infection caused by several types of viruses. It is one of the most common infectious diseases affecting humans. A common cold may typically follow a certain pattern of progression that has four different stages.
-
Sinus Infection vs. ColdViruses cause the common cold and most sinus infections. Bacterial and fungal infections may also cause a sinus infection. Signs and symptoms of colds and sinus infections include nasal irritation or dryness, sore throat, stuffy nose, nasal discharge/congestion, sneezing, and cough. Additional symptoms of sinus infections include sinus pressure behind the cheeks or eyes, facial pain when pressure is applied, bad breath, and thick yellow or green mucus. Treatment focuses on symptom relief.
-
Cold vs. FluThough different viruses cause the common cold and influenza, the two respiratory illnesses share many signs and symptoms. Flu symptoms tend to cause more serious, harmful problems than a cold.
-
How Do I Get Rid of a Cold Sore Overnight?You cannot get rid of cold sores overnight. There is no cure for cold sores. However, to speed up the healing time of a cold sore, you can consult with your doctor and take prescription medications such as antiviral tablets and creams. A cold sore may go away without treatment within a week or two.
-
What Happens if a Pregnant Woman Gets a Cold?Having an ordinary cold shouldn't be harmful to the baby or mother. Pregnant women are highly likely to pick up a cold at some time during pregnancy because it's normal to catch two or three colds a year. A healthy lifestyle is a must to keep the immune system strong and to prevent colds.
-
What Can You Take for a Cold While Pregnant?You may take over-the-counter (OTC) treatment after consulting with the physician because these are generally safe. OTC medications for colds and flus include acetaminophen, guaifenesin syrup and saline nasal drops or spray. You can also use natural remedies to treat a cold during pregnancy.
-
How Do You Get Rid of a Cold Overnight?Cold symptoms are part of your body’s healing processes. Most of the time, it does not require any help. However, you can get rid of a cold faster, even overnight, by resting, drinking hot fluids, blowing your nose, gargling with salt water, taking a hot shower, using a humidifier and taking OTC pain relievers and decongestants.
-
Does Being Cold Make Your Muscles Ache?Cold weather can tighten the muscles and joints, leading to muscle aches and pain.
-
Is Drinking Cold Water Bad?About 60 percent of the body is made up of water. It forms a major part of the blood. The cells and the body cannot function right if the water levels go down. Drinking cold water often causes “cold stress” in the body.
-
Can a Sore Throat Be the Only Symptom of COVID-19?Although rare, COVID-19 may present with only sore throat in about 5%-10% of cases. COVID-19-related sore throat is relatively mild and lasts no more than 4-5 days.
-
What Is the Difference Between Strep Throat and Sore Throat?What Is The Difference Between Strep Throat and Sore Throat? Learn how to identify the symptoms and treat these throat conditions effectively.
Treatment & Diagnosis
- Cough, Cold, Weight Loss Drug Dangerous - Warning
- Strep Throat Diagnosis & Treatment
- Colds: 10 Tips to Prevent The Common Cold
- How Long Does It Take Strep to Go Away?
- Strep Throat Complications
- Sore Throat: Is It Mono or Strep Throat?
- Strep Throat Symptoms
- Cold Sore Treatment
- OTC Cold and Cough Medications
- Sore Throat: Virus or Strep?
- When to Call the Doctor for Fever, Nausea, Diarrhea, Colds, and Coughs
- Strep Throat Natural Home Remedies
- Air Travel, Colds, and Sinus Infections
Medications & Supplements
Prevention & Wellness
Subscribe to MedicineNet's Daily Health News Newsletter
By clicking Submit, I agree to the MedicineNet's Terms & Conditions & Privacy Policy and understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet's subscriptions at any time.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
https://www.rxlist.com/consumer_sucrets_hexylresorcinol/drugs-condition.htm
https://reference.medscape.com/drug/sucrets-original-formula-sore-throat-hexylresorcinol-999688#0
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/hexylresorcinol-drug-information
https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB11254
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Hexylresorcinol