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Debacterol

sulfonated phenolics / sulfuric acid
Used for Canker Sores
Used for Canker Sores

Debacterol is a topical liquid medication used to ease pain from canker sores (mouth ulcers) or other minor mouth irritations. It's made up of 50% sulfonated phenolics and 30% sulfuric acid. Debacterol belongs to a group of medications known as debriding agents, which are used to remove dead tissue in wounds. Debacterol is applied directly to the canker sore, typically for about 5 seconds as a one-time treatment by a healthcare professional, such as a dentist. Some side effects of this medication include irritation and stinging at the application site.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
Last reviewed on May 8, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageCostAlternativesReferencesPricesMedicare
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What is Debacterol?

What is Debacterol used for?

  • Short-term relief of canker sores and small mouth irritations in people 12 years and older

How Debacterol works

Debacterol contains sulfonated phenolics and sulfuric acid. The exact way they work to ease pain from canker sores isn't well-understood. But the manufacturer claims that they can help break down skin tissue at the application site. When applied to canker sores, Debacterol helps remove dead tissue so healthy tissues can grow in its place.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsDebacterol (brand no longer available)
Drug ClassTopical debriding agent
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Avg retail price
$82.49(save 22.24%)
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$64.14
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What are the side effects of Debacterol?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Source: DailyMed

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Debacterol

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Pros

Might experience canker sore pain relief shortly after rinsing off medication

Most people only need one application per canker sore

Might work well for people who didn’t see benefits with triamcinolone dental paste

thumbs-down

Cons

Only given by a healthcare professional, which can be inconvenient for people with a busy schedule

Not clear if it works well or is safe for people who are pregnant

Contains sulfur, so not a safe option if you have an allergy to any form of sulfur

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Debacterol

pharmacist

  • Your healthcare professional (HCP) will typically apply Debacterol to your canker sore or mouth sore at a dental office, clinic, or hospital. This medication needs to be given by a trained HCP with the proper tools and technique to make sure it's used safely and to lower the risk of side effects.

    • Don't swallow Debacterol. This medication might be harmful if it's accidentally swallowed. After your HCP applies it to the canker sore, they'll instruct you to rinse your mouth thoroughly, then spit.

      • Let your HCP know if you feel a stinging sensation or pain after one application of Debacterol. There's a chance that they might've missed parts of the canker sore during the application. Your HCP can apply the medication again to make sure the canker sores are completely covered.

        • Debacterol should only be used in your mouth to treat canker sores or minor mouth irritations.

          • If Debacterol gets into your eyes, get medical attention right away. Your HCP will ask you to rinse your eyes with lukewarm water for 15 minutes to make sure the medication is flushed out. If you wear contact lenses and you accidentally get Debacterol into your eyes, make sure to take them out before rinsing.

            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Debacterol

            Can I buy Debacterol over the counter?
            No. Debacterol can only be ordered by healthcare professionals for use in a clinic or hospital setting. It isn't available for purchase over the counter.
            Can you use Debacterol on your tongue?
            Typically, Debacterol can be applied in your mouth in places where you have canker sores (mouth ulcers), including your tongue. Your healthcare professional (HCP) will let you know whether Debacterol is appropriate to treat any sores on your tongue.
            Does Debacterol hurt when you apply it?
            Debacterol can cause some irritation, such as a stinging sensation when it's applied. This should go away once you rinse your mouth with water and spit it out. If the pain or irritation continues, your healthcare professional might recommend you to rinse your mouth with a baking soda solution. Let your care team know if the stinging doesn't go away after a few minutes of rinsing out your mouth.
            Can I use Debacterol for cold sores?
            No. The manufacturer states that Debacterol should only be used for canker sores. It's not for cold sores or fever blisters, which are painful, fluid-filled sores or crusting around the lips. If you have a cold sore, ask your care team about appropriate medications (e.g., docosanol (Abreva)) that might help. Discuss the risks and benefits of each option with a healthcare professional to see what's most appropriate for you.
            How long does Debacterol take to relieve pain from canker sores?
            The manufacturer claims that most people typically feel pain relief from canker sores after one treatment of Debacterol. A small study showed that most people experienced noticeable pain relief 3 days after treatment. Ask your healthcare team if you're not sure whether Debacterol is working.
            What should I expect when I get Debacterol applied?
            Before the application, your healthcare professional (HCP) will prepare the area for treatment by drying the canker sore(s) or ulcer(s) with a cotton swab. Then, they'll apply Debacterol to the affected area(s) inside your mouth for at least 5 seconds, but no more than 10 seconds. During this time, you might experience some stinging. Typically, the stinging from Debacterol and the pain from the canker sore should ease after you rinse your mouth with water and spit. If you still feel stinging, let your HCP know. They might give you a baking soda rinse to see if that helps. If not, there's a chance that they might've missed parts of the canker sore and will need to reapply Debacterol to those areas.
            How well does Debacterol work for canker sores?
            One small study showed that 80% of the canker sores in people who received Debacterol completely healed by day 6. In addition, all of the people who received Debacterol no longer experienced pain from canker sores by day 10. Follow up with your healthcare team to learn more about how well Debacterol can work to treat canker sores.
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            What are the risks and warnings for Debacterol?

            Debacterol can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

            risk-warning

            Use only inside the mouth

            Debacterol should only be used inside your mouth for canker sores or minor mouth irritations. Your healthcare professional will have you rinse your mouth with water and spit right after use. If you think that you might’ve accidentally swallowed this medication, get medical attention or call your Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away. If Debacterol gets into your eyes, let your healthcare team know right away and rinse your eyes with water for 15 minutes.

            risk-warning

            Allergic reaction

            • Risk factors: Allergy to sulfur ingredients

              Tell your healthcare team before treatment with Debacterol if you've been told you have an allergy to sulfur. This medication contains sulfur and can cause allergic reactions if it's used in someone who's allergic to sulfur ingredients. In general, watch out for signs and symptoms of allergic reactions, such as swelling, rash, itchy skin, or trouble breathing. Tell your care team right away if you have these signs and symptoms.

              dosage

              Debacterol dosage forms

              The average cost for 12 swabs of 50%/30% of Debacterol is $64.14 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 22.24% off the average retail price of $82.49.
              swab
              Swab
              DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
              50%/30%12 swabs$64.14$5.34

              Typical dosing for Debacterol

              Debacterol is usually given in a dental office, clinic, or hospital setting by a healthcare professional. Your care team will make sure you get this medication safely at the correct time.

              The typical dose is one application to the affected area(s) in the mouth for 5 to 10 seconds. Afterwards, rinse mouth with water and then spit.

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              How much does Debacterol cost?

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              Debacterol (brand)
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              alternatives

              What are alternatives to Debacterol?

              There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Debacterol. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
              Debacterol
              Used for:

              • Short-term relief of canker sores and small mouth irritations in people 12 years and older

              $64.14 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
              Triamcinolone
              Used for:

              • Inflammatory skin conditions

              $74.80 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices

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              References

              Best studies we found

              Brown, T. J., et al. (2020). Management of cancer therapy-associated oral mucositis. JCO Oncology Practice.

              Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). AIDS and opportunistic infections.

              EPIEN Medical Inc. (2021). Debacterol canker sore pain relief- phenolsulfonic acid and sulfuric acid solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

              View All References (4)

              EPIEN Medical Inc. (n.d.). Clinical indications.

              EPIEN Medical Inc. (n.d.). Debacterol.

              EPIEN Medical Inc. (n.d.). Debacterol: Instructions for use.

              Rhodus, N. L., et al. (1998). An evaluation of a chemical cautery agent and an anti-inflammatory ointment for the treatment of recurrent aphthous stomatitis: A pilot study. Quintessence International.

              GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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