A study has shown that Listerine Cool Mint and Total Care are effective in killing certain sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the mouth and throat. Although the study revealed information that came as news to researchers, the manufacturers of Listerine say they have known this since 1879.

A clinical trial was conducted with 58 gay/bisexual men who had been tested positive for gonorrhea in their mouths and throats. After using Listerine, which is 21.6 percent alcohol, gonorrhea bacteria was significantly reduced, taking the bacteria levels down to 52 percent, almost half.

Why gonorrhea?

Patients with gonorrhea were included in the clinical trial because it is a common STD among young adults. It is spread through vaginal, oral or anal sex.

If gonorrhea is not treated, it can lead to prostate and testicle problems in men and pelvic inflammatory disease among women that can cause infertility and other pregnancy problems, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health.

Long-term effects

Researchers are continuing to study the effects of Listerine on STDs. They want to find out if daily use of Listerine can continue to reduce STDs. If so, it may present an inexpensive and easy way to reduce gonorrhea bacteria and other STDs.

To learn more about the study, visit http://sti.bmj.com/content/early/2016/11/29/sextrans-2016-052753

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