arginine undecylenate

Arginine undecylenate (Solexan, GS-1) is a topical small molecule drug developed by Wintermute Biomedical for the treatment of herpes zoster (shingles). It is a water-soluble salt composed of the amino acid L-arginine and undecylenic acid. Unlike traditional antivirals that interfere with viral enzymes, arginine undecylenate acts through a mechanical mechanism of action; it forms nanomicelles that bind to the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV), preventing the virus from infecting host cells and spreading. The drug has an established safety profile as an FDA-registered topical antifungal. In a Phase Ib trial (WNTR-VZV-001), it demonstrated a significant reduction in the median duration of shingles-associated pain compared to placebo.

Brand names

Solexan

Other names

arginine undecylenate