A comparison of pentane-1,5-diol to other diols for use in dermatology.

The use of pentane-1,5-diol in topical pharmaceutical products is relatively new compared with, e.g., propane-1,2-diol (propylene glycol), also an aliphatic diol, which has been used for many years. Yet, what are the differences between diols in clinical efficacy, safety and other characteristics? The objective of this overview was to compare the efficacy, safety, chemical and pharmaceutical characteristics of pentane-1,5-diol with other aliphatic diols used in pharmaceutical formulations in dermatology. A survey of the literature was carried out based on searches limited to aliphatic diols. Pentane-1,5-diol was found to be safe and more effective than several other diols with respect to drug delivery-enhancing potency, pharmaceutical and cosmetic properties, antimicrobial spectrum and toxicity. Results from formal clinical trials with pentane-1,5-diol verify its efficacy and safety. These characteristics together with its low cost make pentane-1,5-diol an attractive substance for use in pharmaceutical formulations for topical administration.