Penciclovir, Topical

What are other names for this medicine?

Type of medicine: antiviral; cold sore treatment

Generic and brand names: penciclovir, topical; Denavir

What is this medicine used for?

This medicine is a cream applied to the face and lips to treat herpes labialis (cold sores).

What should my healthcare provider know before I take this medicine?

Tell your healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine.

Females of childbearing age: Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine without your healthcare provider's approval.

How do I use it?

This medicine is for use only on the lips and face. It is usually applied to cold sores every 2 hours during waking hours for 4 days, or as directed by your healthcare provider. Check the label on the medicine for directions about your specific dose. For best results, start using this medicine as soon as you think you might have a cold sore.

Wash your hands well before and after applying this medicine. Do not get the cream into or near your eyes because it can be irritating. If you accidentally get the cream in your eyes, flush your eyes with cool water.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not use double doses. If you are not sure of what to do if you miss a dose, or if you miss more than one dose, contact your healthcare provider.

What if I overdose?

An acute overdose of this medicine is not likely to cause life-threatening symptoms. If you think that you or anyone else may have taken too much of this medicine, call the poison control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I watch out for?

Do not share this medicine with anyone else who might have a similar condition.

What are the possible side effects?

Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Serious: No serious side effects have been reported. However, if your condition gets worse, see your healthcare provider.

Other: Headache; mild itching, burning, or numbness on the spot where cream was applied; change in sense of taste.

What products might interact with this medicine?

No significant drug interactions have been reported. However, tell your healthcare provider about any other products you are using on your lips or face.

Keep a list of all your medicines with you. List all the prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins that you take. Be sure that you tell all healthcare providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.

How should I store this medicine?

Store this medicine at room temperature. Keep the container tightly closed. Protect it from heat, high humidity, and bright light.

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This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Ask your pharmacist for the best way to dispose of outdated medicine or medicine you have not used. Do not throw medicine in the trash.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Do not share medicines with other people.

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