Efficacy of Lycopene in the Management of Oral Leukoplakia – A Systematic Review

Abstract Background: Leukoplakia is majorly treated pharmacologically and surgically along with counselling of patients for complete stoppage of habit. In spite of multiple treatment modalities, complete remission of lesions has not been achieved till date. Hence, future research is recommended to explore promising treatment options. Objectives: The aim of this review was to identify and interpret the results of the studies that evaluated efficacy of lycopene in the treatment of Oral leukoplakia in comparison with other treatment modalities. Materials and Methods: An extensive search was carried out using databases named PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, Embase, web of science, EBSCOhost from June 1999 to June 2023 to identify Oral leukoplakia related clinical trials involving lycopene as one of the interventions. Studies were screened based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. A final inclusion of four RCTs was done to evaluate the effectiveness of lycopene alone or in combination with various drugs in the treatment of Oral leukoplakia. Results: Lycopene was found to be effective in reduction in size and complete healing of lesions without adverse effects. Conclusion: This systematic review suggests that lycopene is potent and efficacious in the treatment of oral leukoplakia compared to other treatment modalities.