Aciclovir Cream is a prescription product applied topically to combat facial cold sores. It is not a cure and will not prevent spread of the virus.

The antiviral ingredient in this medication makes it far more effective than non-prescription versions. Aciclovir has been used extensively around the globe for decades and is proven to be an effective and safe tool for combating viral infections.

Who Uses Aciclovir Cream?

Aciclovir Cream is primarily used to treat cold sores or fever blisters caused by the herpes labialis virus. This medication is for cold sores on the lips and face; for treating genital herpes Aciclovir Ointment is more effective.

Cold sore outbreaks are often uncomfortable and embarrassing. This product offers patients relief in severity and duration of symptoms. If applied early enough, it may prevent some cold sores from completely forming.

How Does it Work?

The active ingredient in Aciclovir Cream, aciclovir, is an antiviral medication. Aciclovir interacts with an enzyme found in certain types of viruses, which interferes with its ability to reproduce and thrive. In short, Aciclovir Cream suppresses the virus and aids the immune system in fighting it.

Aciclovir helps reduce the severity, duration, and frequency of cold sores. It is not a cure for cold sores and will not prevent outbreaks from happening, and it will not prevent the spread of the virus to other persons.

How is it Used?

Aciclovir cream should be applied as soon as symptoms are noticed. Some patients are unaware of an outbreak until cold sores appear, while others may notice tingling, itchiness, or a small bump.

Once symptoms are noticed, the cream is usually applied five times a day for 4 days. Physician instructions may vary, however.

Prior to application, hands and the affected area should be washed and dried. Apply cream to the affected area and gently rub the cream into the skin until it disappears.

Do not cover the area with a bandage or other dressing once cream is applied unless specifically instructed to do so by a physician.

Avoid contaminating the affected area with other products, such as lotion or makeup.

Aciclovir cream is easily washed off with water and may need to be reapplied after showering or swimming.

Ingredients:

Active ingredient: aciclovir

Inactive ingredients: water, cetostearyl alcohol, mineral oil, petrolatum, poloxamer 407, sodium lauryl sulfate, propylene glycol

Patients with known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients in Aciclovir Cream should not take this product.

Adverse Effects:

A very small amount of patients report skin irritation at the site of application.

The effects of Aciclovir Cream on mucus membranes (such as in the mouth, nose, or eyes) has not been determined, so contact with these areas should be avoided.

Aciclovir Cream has not been tested on patients with compromised immune systems or on patients under 12 years of age.

The effects of this medication on nursing or unborn babies is also unknown. If pregnant or nursing a physician should be consulted before use.

Contraindications and Interactions:

This product should be used with caution in pregnant or nursing mothers, persons with compromised immune systems, and children under 12 years of age.

If skin irritation develops or symptoms worsen, discontinue use and consult a physician.

Why Aciclovir Cream?

Unlike non-prescription creams designed to treat cold sores, Aciclovir Cream contains a prescription antiviral medication. The antiviral properties greatly enhance the medication's effectiveness in alleviating symptoms and reducing the spread and duration of outbreaks.