An approach of the in vivo antibacterial activity of benzoxonium chloride and comparison with other buccopharyngeal disinfectants.

Different pharmaceutical forms of N-benzyl,N-dodecyl-N,N-di(2-hydroxyethyl) ammonium chloride (benzoxonium chloride, Orofar) have been tested on the overall buccopharyngeal bacterial count in healthy volunteers, and compared to competitors. Gargle solutions are most effective in reducing initial bacterial count. An open repeated dose study has been performed on 38 patients with sore throat to assess the safety and the efficacy of benzoxonium chloride tablets and gelsolets at doses of 6 mg and 10 mg daily for 4 to 6 days. Pathogens disappeared or were clearly reduced and the syndrome resolved. Tolerance was good. Differences in methodologies are discussed.