Penciclovir
Pronunciation: (pen-SICK-low-vihr)Class: Antiviral agent
Trade Names:Denavir- Cream 10 mg/g
Pharmacology
Selectively inhibits herpes viral DNA synthesis and replication.
Indications and Usage
Treatment of recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores) in adults.
Contraindications
Standard considerations.
Dosage and Administration
AdultsTopical Apply to lesions every 2 h while awake for 4 days. Start treatment as early as possible, during the prodrome or when lesions first appear.
Storage/Stability
Store at room temperature (59° to 86°F). Do not freeze.
Drug Interactions
None well documented.
Laboratory Test Interactions
None well documented.
Adverse Reactions
Dermatologic
Application-site reaction.
Precautions
Pregnancy
Category B .
Lactation
Undetermined.
Children
Safety and efficacy not established.
Elderly
Adverse reaction profile similar to younger patients.
Patient Information
- Instruct patient to begin treatment as soon as possible, during the prodrome, or as soon as lesions appear.
- Advise patient to apply the medication exactly as directed and to only apply to lesions on the face and lips.
- Advise patient to avoid applying cream to mucous membranes, within or near eyes.
- Advise patient to wash hands before and after applying cream.
- Advise patient to discontinue use and notify health care provider if local irritation develops.
- Advise the patient that the use of additional OTC creams or ointments may delay the healing process or even spread the disease.
- Instruct the patient to notify the health care provider if the symptoms do not improve in 7 days of topical therapy.
- Instruct the patient to apply sufficient ointment to cover all lesions every 2 hr while awake.
- Advise the patient to use a finger cot or glove when applying the ointment to prevent the spread of virus.
Copyright © 2009 Wolters Kluwer Health.
