MedPath

Rose bengal

Generic Name
Rose bengal
Drug Type
Small Molecule
Chemical Formula
C20H4Cl4I4O5

Overview

Rose bengal is a pink stain derived as an analogue of fluorescein. Its disodium salt in ophthalmic solutions has been used as a diagnostic agent in suspected damage to conjunctival and corneal cells. It is also used in laboratory settings, including the preparation of Foraminifera for microscopic analysis and suppression of bacterial growth in several microbiological media. A direct cytotoxic effect of Rose bengal on microorganisms and cancer cells has been observed, questioning its potential antitumor actions via intralesional injections. The clinical applications of rose bengal as injectable formulation under the name PV-10 in melanoma, breast cancer and skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis are being investigated in clinical trials.

Background

Rose bengal is a pink stain derived as an analogue of fluorescein. Its disodium salt in ophthalmic solutions has been used as a diagnostic agent in suspected damage to conjunctival and corneal cells. It is also used in laboratory settings, including the preparation of Foraminifera for microscopic analysis and suppression of bacterial growth in several microbiological media. A direct cytotoxic effect of Rose bengal on microorganisms and cancer cells has been observed, questioning its potential antitumor actions via intralesional injections. The clinical applications of rose bengal as injectable formulation under the name PV-10 in melanoma, breast cancer and skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis are being investigated in clinical trials.

Indication

Indicated as a diagnostic agent in routine ocular examinations or when superficial conjunctiva or corneal tissue change is suspected, and as an aid in the diagnosis of keratoconjunctivitis sicca, keratitis, abrasions or corrosions as well as the detection of foreign bodies.

Associated Conditions

No associated conditions information available.

FDA Drug Approvals

Approved Product
Manufacturer
NDC Code
Route
Strength
Effective Date
No FDA approvals found for this drug.

EMA Drug Approvals

Approved Product
Authorization Holder
Status
Issued Date
No EMA approvals found for this drug.

HSA Drug Approvals

Approved Product
Manufacturer
Approval Number
Dosage Form
Strength
Approval Date
No HSA approvals found for this drug.

NMPA Drug Approvals

Approved Product
Company
Approval Number
Drug Type
Dosage Form
Approval Date
No NMPA approvals found for this drug.

PPB Drug Approvals

Approved Product
Registration No.
Company
Licence No.
Strength
Registration Date
No PPB approvals found for this drug.

TGA Drug Approvals

Approved Product
ARTG ID
Sponsor
Registration Type
Status
Registration Date
No TGA approvals found for this drug.
© Copyright 2025. All Rights Reserved by MedPath