Docosanol skin cream
What is docosanol skin cream?
DOCOSANOL (Abreva™) skin cream treats herpes virus infections of the face and mouth. These are also known as cold sores or fever blisters. Docosanol will not cure herpes infections; it will help the sores heal faster and relieve the pain or discomfort. Generic docosanol cream is not available.
What should my health care professional know before I use docosanol?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
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suppressed immune function
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an unusual or allergic reaction to docosanol, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
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pregnant or trying to get pregnant
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breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Docosanol skin cream is only for external use on the skin or lips; do not use in the eye. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Use a finger cot or rubber glove so that you do not spread the infection to another site. Apply a thin layer of cream to cover all lesions adequately. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed on the label.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use
only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
What drug(s) may interact with docosanol?
No interactions have been shown between other medicines and docosanol cream.
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about other skin products that you are
using, including non-prescription skin products. Check with your prescriber or health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking docosanol?
Even though you are using docosanol you can still pass herpes to another person. Try to keep the sores (blisters) from making contact with another person's skin.
Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve after 1 week.
Docosanol works best when applied very early in the course of an infection. Begin
treatment at the first signs of infection (such as tingling, itching, or pain in the affected area).
Do not get the cream in your eyes; if you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water.
What side effects may I notice from using docosanol?
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Throw
away any unused medicine after the expiration date.