Abstract: A method of inactivating viruses comprises contacting the virus with a virucidally effective amount of a composition consisting essentially of a C1 to C3 monohydroxy alcohol or a C2 to C4 diol and a sufficient amount of an acid to adjust the pH of the composition to below 4.6. Topical administration of the composition is preferred and is effective in treating lesions associated infections by viruses such as herpes simplex. Nasal deliverable forms are effective in treating symptoms due to viruses that cause the common cold. Pharmaceutical compositions for use in the present method are provided.

Abstract: A method of inactivating enveloped virus comprises contacting said virus with a virucidally effective amount of a composition comprising a C1 to C3 monohydroxy alcohol or a C3 to C4 diol and a sufficient amount of an acid to adjust the pH of the composition to below 4.6. Topical administration of the composition is preferred and is effective in treating lesions associated with herpes infections. Pharmaceutical compositions for use in the present method are provided.

Abstract: A method of inactivating viruses comprises contacting the virus with a virucidally effective amount of a composition consisting essentially of a C1 to C3 monohydroxy alcohol or a C2 to C4 diol and a sufficient amount of an acid to adjust the pH of the composition to below 4.6. Topical administration of the composition is preferred and is effective in treating lesions associated infections by viruses such as herpes simplex. Nasal deliverable forms are effective in treating symptoms due to viruses that cause the common cold. Pharmaceutical compositions for use in the present method are provided.

Abstract: A method for preventing lesions caused by a virus of the Herpesviridae or Poxviridae family, comprising topically applying a composition consisting essentially of a C1 to C3 monohydroxy alcohol or a C2 to C4 diol and a sufficient amount of an acid to adjust the pH of the composition to below 4.6. Topical administration of the composition is preferred and is effective in treating lesions associated infections by viruses such as herpes simplex. Pharmaceutical compositions for use in the present method are provided.

Abstract: A method for treating an inflammation or lesion caused by herpesvirus, comprising topically applying to said inflammation or lesion a composition consisting essentially of a C1 to C3 monohydroxy alcohol or a C2 to C4 diol and a sufficient amount of an acid to adjust the pH of the composition to below 4.6. Topical administration of the composition is preferred and is effective in treating lesions associated infections by viruses such as herpes simplex. Nasal deliverable forms are effective in treating symptoms due to viruses that cause the common cold. Pharmaceutical compositions for use in the present method are provided.