Menthyl D-Lactate, (-)-
Menthyl D-Lactate, (-)- is a stereoisomer of the menthyl lactate compound, which is the ester formed from menthol and lactic acid. This compound belongs to the pin-variant class and is primarily utilized in cosmetic and topical formulations for its cooling and fragrance properties. Specific therapeutic applications and mechanism of action for this particular stereoisomer are not clearly documented in standard pharmaceutical references.
A menthol-derived ester compound used mainly in topical and cosmetic applications for its sensory properties.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1866625
- Generic
- Menthyl D-Lactate, (-)-
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
This stereoisomer is primarily used in topical cosmetic formulations, skincare products, and fragrances rather than as a pharmaceutical agent. It provides cooling sensation and pleasant sensory effects when applied to skin or mucosal surfaces. Therapeutic uses for this compound are not well-established in clinical literature.
The mechanism of action is not specified. As a menthol derivative, it likely interacts with TRPM8 cold receptors in the skin to produce a cooling sensation. The specific effects of the (-)-enantiomer compared to other stereoisomers are not well characterized.
Limited clinical safety data is available for this specific stereoisomer. As a cosmetic-grade compound, it may have different purity and testing requirements than pharmaceutical drugs. The 'pin-variant' designation indicates specific structural characteristics, but comprehensive safety and efficacy information is not widely documented.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 28, 2026. · Read our editorial policy