Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification System
Carbenoxolone is a glycyrrhetinic acid derivative with a steroid-like structure, similar to substances found in the flavor-ful root of the licorice plant. It influences endogenous glucocorticoids by potently inhibiting 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. Electrolyte imbalance is a serious side effect of carbenoxolone when used systemically. Carbenoxolone is best known in cellular physiology as a modestly potent, reasonably effective, water-soluble blocker of gap junctions. It exerts anti-inflammatory activity. Carbenoxolone has used orally in the clinical treatment of peptic ulcers, now it is used topically for the treatment of lip sores and mouth ulcers.