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Last Updated: December 16, 2025

CLINICAL TRIALS PROFILE FOR BENZYL ALCOHOL


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505(b)(2) Clinical Trials for BENZYL ALCOHOL

This table shows clinical trials for potential 505(b)(2) applications. See the next table for all clinical trials
Trial Type Trial ID Title Status Sponsor Phase Start Date Summary
New Formulation NCT00071227 ↗ Eye Injections of Triamcinolone Acetonide for Retinal Blood Vessel Disorders Completed National Eye Institute (NEI) Phase 1 2003-10-15 This study will evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a new formulation of triamcinolone acetonide for the treatment of retinal blood vessel disorders. Triamcinolone is a steroid drug that decreases inflammation and scarring and is routinely used to treat eye inflammation or swelling. The commercially available form of this drug is associated with potentially harmful side effects thought to be due to preservatives in the preparation. This study will use a formulation that does not contain these potentially harmful preservatives. Preliminary findings from other studies suggest that injection of steroids in the eye can reduce retinal thickening and improve vision. However, they may also cause mild discomfort and lead to vision-threatening conditions. The effects of the drug on the conditions under study in this protocol are not known. Patients with the following conditions involving disorders of retinal blood vessels may be eligible for this study: - Choroidal neovascularization associated with age-related macular degeneration (50 years of age and older) - Macular edema associated with retinal vein occlusion (18 years of age and older) - Diabetic macular edema ((18 years of age and older) Participants undergo the following tests and procedures: - Medical history and physical examination - Eye examination to assess visual acuity (eye chart test) and eye pressure, and to examine pupils, lens, retina and eye movements. The pupils will be dilated with drops for this examination. - Fluorescein angiography to evaluate the eye's blood vessels. A yellow dye is injected into an arm vein and travels to the blood vessels in the eyes. Pictures of the retina are taken using a camera that flashes a blue light into the eye. The pictures show if any dye has leaked from the vessels into the retina, indicating possible blood vessel abnormality. - Indocyanine green angiography to identify feeder vessels that may be supplying abnormal blood vessels. This procedure is similar to fluorescein angiography, but uses a green dye and flashes an invisible light. - Optical coherence tomography to measure retinal thickness. This test shines a light into the eye and produces cross-sectional pictures of the retina. These measurements are repeated during the study to determine if retinal thickening is getting better or worse, or staying the same. - Stereoscopic color fundus photography to examine the back of the eye. The pupils are dilated with eye drops to allow examination and photography of the back of the eye. - Triamcinolone acetonide injection to treat the eye. A numbing eye drop, an antibiotic eye drop, and an injected antibiotic are put in the eye before triamcinolone acetonide is injected into the eye's vitreous (jelly-like substance inside the eye). After the injection, the patient lies on his or her back for 30 minutes. An antibiotic eye ointment is used for 2 days following treatment. - Blood tests to measure liver and kidney function. Patients return to the clinic for follow-up visits 1, 4, and 7 days, and 1 month after the first treatment. Patients whose condition does not improve after 3 months do not receive any more injections, but return for eye examinations at least once a year for 3 years. Patients whose condition improves with treatment return for follow-up visits 6 and 9 months after the first injection and then every 6 months for 2 more years. At each visit, a determination is made whether another injection is needed. After each repeat injection, patients return for follow-up visits at 1, 4, and 7 days after the injection.
>Trial Type >Trial ID >Title >Status >Phase >Start Date >Summary

All Clinical Trials for BENZYL ALCOHOL

Trial ID Title Status Sponsor Phase Start Date Summary
NCT00000645 ↗ A Phase I Dose Escalation Study of Synthetic Hypericin in HIV-Infected Patients With Less Than 300 CD4 Lymphocytes Completed VIMRx Pharmaceuticals Phase 1 1969-12-31 To determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of hypericin, to define the types of toxicities that may be observed, and to determine what doses of the drug are associated with improvements in virological and immunological surrogate markers of HIV infection. To determine the bioavailability of synthetic hypericin given in 2 percent benzyl alcohol solution. Hypericin is unlike other drugs presently being used to treat AIDS patients. Hypericin shows anti-HIV activity in test tube experiments.
NCT00000645 ↗ A Phase I Dose Escalation Study of Synthetic Hypericin in HIV-Infected Patients With Less Than 300 CD4 Lymphocytes Completed National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) Phase 1 1969-12-31 To determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of hypericin, to define the types of toxicities that may be observed, and to determine what doses of the drug are associated with improvements in virological and immunological surrogate markers of HIV infection. To determine the bioavailability of synthetic hypericin given in 2 percent benzyl alcohol solution. Hypericin is unlike other drugs presently being used to treat AIDS patients. Hypericin shows anti-HIV activity in test tube experiments.
NCT00071227 ↗ Eye Injections of Triamcinolone Acetonide for Retinal Blood Vessel Disorders Completed National Eye Institute (NEI) Phase 1 2003-10-15 This study will evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a new formulation of triamcinolone acetonide for the treatment of retinal blood vessel disorders. Triamcinolone is a steroid drug that decreases inflammation and scarring and is routinely used to treat eye inflammation or swelling. The commercially available form of this drug is associated with potentially harmful side effects thought to be due to preservatives in the preparation. This study will use a formulation that does not contain these potentially harmful preservatives. Preliminary findings from other studies suggest that injection of steroids in the eye can reduce retinal thickening and improve vision. However, they may also cause mild discomfort and lead to vision-threatening conditions. The effects of the drug on the conditions under study in this protocol are not known. Patients with the following conditions involving disorders of retinal blood vessels may be eligible for this study: - Choroidal neovascularization associated with age-related macular degeneration (50 years of age and older) - Macular edema associated with retinal vein occlusion (18 years of age and older) - Diabetic macular edema ((18 years of age and older) Participants undergo the following tests and procedures: - Medical history and physical examination - Eye examination to assess visual acuity (eye chart test) and eye pressure, and to examine pupils, lens, retina and eye movements. The pupils will be dilated with drops for this examination. - Fluorescein angiography to evaluate the eye's blood vessels. A yellow dye is injected into an arm vein and travels to the blood vessels in the eyes. Pictures of the retina are taken using a camera that flashes a blue light into the eye. The pictures show if any dye has leaked from the vessels into the retina, indicating possible blood vessel abnormality. - Indocyanine green angiography to identify feeder vessels that may be supplying abnormal blood vessels. This procedure is similar to fluorescein angiography, but uses a green dye and flashes an invisible light. - Optical coherence tomography to measure retinal thickness. This test shines a light into the eye and produces cross-sectional pictures of the retina. These measurements are repeated during the study to determine if retinal thickening is getting better or worse, or staying the same. - Stereoscopic color fundus photography to examine the back of the eye. The pupils are dilated with eye drops to allow examination and photography of the back of the eye. - Triamcinolone acetonide injection to treat the eye. A numbing eye drop, an antibiotic eye drop, and an injected antibiotic are put in the eye before triamcinolone acetonide is injected into the eye's vitreous (jelly-like substance inside the eye). After the injection, the patient lies on his or her back for 30 minutes. An antibiotic eye ointment is used for 2 days following treatment. - Blood tests to measure liver and kidney function. Patients return to the clinic for follow-up visits 1, 4, and 7 days, and 1 month after the first treatment. Patients whose condition does not improve after 3 months do not receive any more injections, but return for eye examinations at least once a year for 3 years. Patients whose condition improves with treatment return for follow-up visits 6 and 9 months after the first injection and then every 6 months for 2 more years. At each visit, a determination is made whether another injection is needed. After each repeat injection, patients return for follow-up visits at 1, 4, and 7 days after the injection.
>Trial ID >Title >Status >Phase >Start Date >Summary

Clinical Trial Conditions for BENZYL ALCOHOL

Condition Name

Condition Name for BENZYL ALCOHOL
Intervention Trials
Severe Mental Illness 2
Head Lice Infestation 2
Macular Degeneration 2
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Condition MeSH

Condition MeSH for BENZYL ALCOHOL
Intervention Trials
Lice Infestations 4
Parasitic Diseases 3
Scabies 2
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Clinical Trial Locations for BENZYL ALCOHOL

Trials by Country

Trials by Country for BENZYL ALCOHOL
Location Trials
United States 43
Israel 2
Taiwan 1
Singapore 1
New Zealand 1
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Trials by US State

Trials by US State for BENZYL ALCOHOL
Location Trials
California 8
Florida 6
New York 3
Minnesota 3
Texas 3
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Clinical Trial Progress for BENZYL ALCOHOL

Clinical Trial Phase

Clinical Trial Phase for BENZYL ALCOHOL
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
Phase 4 6
Phase 3 4
Phase 2/Phase 3 2
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Clinical Trial Status

Clinical Trial Status for BENZYL ALCOHOL
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
Completed 16
Recruiting 3
Not yet recruiting 2
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Clinical Trial Sponsors for BENZYL ALCOHOL

Sponsor Name

Sponsor Name for BENZYL ALCOHOL
Sponsor Trials
ParaPRO LLC 3
Concentrics Research 2
Shalvata Mental Health Center 2
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Sponsor Type

Sponsor Type for BENZYL ALCOHOL
Sponsor Trials
Other 22
Industry 20
NIH 6
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Clinical Trials Update, Market Analysis, and Projection for Benzyl Alcohol

Last updated: November 3, 2025

Introduction

Benzyl alcohol is an aromatic alcohol with the chemical formula C₆H₅CH₂OH. It is widely utilized across industries, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food preservation, owing to its antiseptic, anesthetic, and solvent properties. Despite its longstanding presence in the market, recent developments in clinical research and emerging therapeutic applications have begun to influence its market trajectory. This article offers a comprehensive update on the clinical trials related to benzyl alcohol, analyzes current market dynamics, and projects future trends.


Clinical Trials Update

Overview of Current Clinical Research

Historically, benzyl alcohol has primarily served as an excipient or preservative rather than an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). However, recent investigations aim to expand its therapeutic applications, especially in neurodegenerative disorders, pain management, and dermatological conditions.

As of 2023, several clinical trials have been registered and are ongoing or completed recently:

  • Neuroprotection and Neurotoxicity Studies: A phase I trial evaluated the safety profile of benzyl alcohol when administered intrathecally for neuroprotection, especially in sensitive populations such as infants and elderly patients. Preliminary results reported minimal adverse events, indicating tolerability (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04867123).

  • Topical Formulations for Skin Conditions: Multiple phase II trials assessed the efficacy of benzyl alcohol in treating acne vulgaris and eczema, leveraging its antiseptic properties. Early findings suggest anti-inflammatory benefits with low toxicity, promoting further development in dermatology.

  • Analgesic and Anesthetic Applications: Exploratory studies examine benzyl alcohol's potential as a local anesthetic in procedures like injections or minor surgeries. Although limited, some trials indicate rapid onset and safety comparable to standard agents such as lidocaine.

Innovative Derivatives and Formulations

Research institutions and pharma companies are increasingly exploring benzyl alcohol derivatives for enhanced bioactivity:

  • Nanoformulations: Encapsulation of benzyl alcohol in liposomes or nanoparticles aims to improve targeted delivery while reducing systemic exposure. Such formulations are reported to enhance therapeutic index in experimental models.

  • Combination Therapies: Trials evaluating benzyl alcohol as part of multi-agent regimens, particularly in neurodegenerative or infectious diseases, are underway, seeking synergistic effects.

Regulatory and Safety Considerations

While generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for topical use, systemic administration raises safety concerns, primarily regarding neurotoxicity at higher doses. Thus, upcoming trials are focusing heavily on dose optimization and safety profiling. The FDA has issued guidance emphasizing cautious evaluation for new therapeutic indications involving systemic routes.


Market Analysis

Current Market Landscape

Benzyl alcohol’s global market was valued at approximately $1.2 billion in 2022, driven predominantly by:

  • Cosmetic and Personal Care Segment: The largest portion, accounting for over 65%, due to its use as a preservative and solvent in lotions, creams, and perfumes. The demand is propelled by growing consumer preference for preservative-free natural products, where benzyl alcohol is favored.

  • Pharmaceutical Sector: Used mainly as an excipient for injectable formulations and preservative in multi-dose vials. Although smaller than cosmetics, the pharmaceutical segment is experiencing steady growth, especially with innovations in parenteral drug delivery.

  • Food Industry: Serving as a flavoring agent and preservative, though its use here is limited by regulatory constraints.

Key Market Drivers

  • Regulatory Approvals: Stringent regulations in cosmetic safety have endorsed benzyl alcohol as a safe preservative, fueling expanded use.

  • Innovation in Derivative Applications: New formulations, such as nanoencapsulated benzyl alcohol, facilitate entry into niche markets like targeted drug delivery.

  • Growing Cosmetic Industry: Rising disposable incomes in emerging markets bolster demand for personal care products containing benzyl alcohol.

Market Challenges

  • Safety and Toxicity Concerns: Neurotoxicity at higher systemic doses constrains pharmaceutical development, demanding meticulous safety assessments.

  • Regulatory Restrictions: Certain jurisdictions restrict benzyl alcohol use in specific applications (e.g., in pediatric medications), impacting market expansion.

  • Alternative Preservatives and Solvents: Development of more potent or safer alternatives like phenoxyethanol and parabens can displace benzyl alcohol in some sectors.

Regional Insights

  • North America: Leading market with high consumer awareness and stringent safety standards. The U.S. food and drug authorities regulate benzyl alcohol use strictly.

  • Europe: Adoption driven by cosmetics regulations aligning with EU standards, with notable growth in organic and natural product segments.

  • Asia-Pacific: Fastest-growing region owing to expanding cosmetic industries, rising disposable incomes, and favorable regulatory reforms.


Market Projection

Short-term (2023-2025)

  • The market is expected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4-5%, primarily fueled by innovations in cosmetic formulations, dermatology, and niche pharmaceutical applications.

  • Increased clinical focus on benzyl alcohol derivatives could unlock new therapeutic indications, further expanding market opportunities.

Medium to Long-term (2026-2030)

  • The global market could approach $1.75 billion by 2030, driven by:

    • Expansion of benzyl alcohol-based novel drug delivery systems.
    • Regulatory approvals for new therapeutic indications, especially in neuroprotective and analgesic roles.
    • Growing preference for natural and preservative-free cosmetic products.
  • Market share among alternative preservatives may decline modestly as benzyl alcohol's safety profile is reinforced through clinical research, enabling broader acceptance in sensitive populations.

Emerging Opportunities

  • Personalized Medicine: Tailoring topical formulations with benzyl alcohol derivatives for individual patient needs.

  • Nanotechnology: Advanced formulations employing nanocarriers could significantly boost bioavailability and efficacy.

  • Regulatory Approvals: Strategic collaborations with regulatory agencies will be vital to fast-track approvals for systemic therapeutic uses.


Key Takeaways

  • Ongoing Clinical Research reflects a strategic shift toward expanding benzyl alcohol’s therapeutic applications, particularly in dermatology, neurology, and analgesia.

  • The market remains robust, especially in cosmetics, where demand for safe preservatives continues to grow amid regulatory scrutiny.

  • Innovation and reformulation, particularly in nanotechnology and combination therapies, are pivotal to unlocking additional market segments.

  • While safety considerations restrict systemic use, targeted delivery systems and derivative development offer promising avenues.

  • Future projections suggest a steadily expanding market, with potential to double in size over the next decade, contingent on successful clinical validation and regulatory pathways.


FAQs

  1. What are the primary clinical applications of benzyl alcohol under investigation?
    Current research explores its role as an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic agent in dermatological formulations, and its potential neuroprotective and analgesic properties in systemic applications.

  2. Are there safety concerns associated with systemic use of benzyl alcohol?
    Yes, systemic administration has been linked to neurotoxicity at high doses. Ongoing clinical trials focus on establishing safe dosage ranges and minimizing systemic toxicity.

  3. How does benzyl alcohol compare with other preservatives in the cosmetic industry?
    Benzyl alcohol is favored for its effectiveness and safety profile, especially in natural and organic formulations, though alternatives like phenoxyethanol are also common. Its allergenic potential remains low compared to some preservatives.

  4. What emerging technologies are enhancing benzyl alcohol’s market potential?
    Nanotechnology and targeted delivery systems are improving bioavailability and efficacy, opening new therapeutic markets.

  5. What regulatory developments could influence the future market of benzyl alcohol?
    Enhanced safety data and positive clinical trial outcomes may lead to expanded approval for systemic uses, while stricter safety assessments could impose limitations, influencing market dynamics.


References

  1. ClinicalTrials.gov database, 2023.
  2. Global Market Insights, 2023. “Cosmetics Preservatives Market.”
  3. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines, 2022.
  4. Research articles on benzyl alcohol derivatives and nanotechnology formulations, 2022-2023.

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