Debacterol
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.
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 Brands | Debacterol |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Topical debriding agent |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Not a controlled medication |
| Generic Status | No lower-cost generic available |
| Availability | Prescription only |
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
- Temporary stinging at the application site
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Pros and cons of Debacterol
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
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 for Debacterol
- 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.
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.
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.
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.
Debacterol dosage
Swab| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50%/30% | 12 swabs | $61.63 | $5.14 |
Typical dosage 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.
How much does Debacterol cost?
$61.63
