“Our in vitro studies demonstrate that highly porous carbon structures trapped virions blocked infection and substantially improved efficacy when ACV was loaded onto them. “In our quest to inhibit herpes simplex virus infection via the compounds found in commonly used cosmetic products, we found that activated carbon particles inhibit infection and, in addition, substantially improve topical delivery and, hence, the efficacy of a common antiviral drug, acyclovir (ACV),” the authors wrote. Particles tend to bind to charcoal easily and it is often used in filters for water for this reason. Activated carbon is known to have purifying effects by trapping toxins in its highly porous structure. However, long-term use often results in resistance to the drug as well as kidney damage. Moreover, treatment for both infections often includes acyclovir-a systemic medication taken orally. There are two types of herpes simplex virus: herpes simplex 1, which infects the eyes and mouth and is a leading cause of blindness, and herpes simplex 2, a genital infection that causes warts and can seriously impair quality of life. “Using less of the drug can help reduce the risk of kidney damage, which can be significant when these drugs are used over long periods of time.”

“Combing herpes medication with activated charcoal makes the drug much more efficient so less of the drug is needed to achieve the same effect,” explained senior study investigator Deepak Shukla, PhD, professor of ophthalmology, microbiology, and immunology in the UIC College of Medicine.

Universal antidote