Monolaurin (glycerol monolaurate)

Monolaurin is a monoglyceride of lauric acid sold as a supplement for cold sores (herpes labialis), promoted for the antiviral activity it shows in lab settings. In people with cold sores it has not shown convincing benefit – there is no evidence base for this use. What actually helps during a flare are oral or topical antivirals such as aciclovir or valaciclovir, especially when started at the first signs. The substance itself is harmless in this role, but do not use it instead of treatment with proven benefit, or you may miss out on care that works.

ICD-10: B00.1 · ICD-11: 1F00.01

Monolaurin (lauric acid monoglyceride) is a supplement derived from coconut and palm oil. It is promoted as an antiviral, including for herpes simplex. No convincing benefit has been shown for this use: the supporting data come only from low-quality studies. For herpes simplex flare-ups, antiviral drugs such as aciclovir and valaciclovir do work. The substance is safe in this role, but do not use it in place of therapy with proven benefit, or you may miss out on treatment that helps.

ICD-10: B00 · ICD-11: 1F00.Z

Monolaurin is a monoglyceride of lauric acid, sold as a supplement to support immunity and help with respiratory infections. There is no convincing evidence for this use: nothing reliably shows that monolaurin prevents colds or eases their course. For a respiratory infection, rest, fluids and time do the work, while flu vaccination and, when indicated, antivirals with proven benefit are what actually shorten or soften symptoms. Do not take monolaurin in place of treatment with proven benefit, since that can mean missing the care you need.