Drug Uses

This medicine is used on the lips and faces of adults to treat cold sores caused by herpes simplex virus. Penciclovir does not cure herpes infections but decreases pain and itching if applied when the earliest symptoms first appear.

How Taken

Clean and dry the area before applying the cream to avoid spreading the infection. Rub the cream in gently, using enough cream to cover all sores completely. Penciclovir comes as a cream. It is usually used externally every 2 hours while you are awake for 4 days. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist or doctor to explain any part you do not understand. Use penciclovir exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Use this medication as soon as possible after symptoms appear. Continue to use penciclovir even if you feel well. Do not stop using penciclovir without talking to your doctor.

Warnings/Precautions

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking penciclovir, call your doctor. Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to penciclovir, acyclovir (Zovirax), or any other drugs. Tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, including vitamins.

Missed Dose

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it and apply any remaining dosages for that day at evenly spaced intervals. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Possible Side Effects

Some common side effects reported with this medicine include headache or irritation at the site of application.

Storage

Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

More Information

For more information, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or health care provider.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose, it should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. CompletePills disclaims all responsibility for the accuracy of, and reliability of this information, and or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to the contents of this material.