Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical

Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection.

Hydrocortisone is a topical (for the skin) steroid. It reduces the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation.

The combination of acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical (for the skin) is used to treat cold sores in people who are at least 12 years old.

This medication will not cure or prevent cold sores caused by herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection.

Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to acyclovir (Zovirax) or hydrocortisone.

To make sure you can safely use acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical, tell your doctor if you have a weak immune system (caused by disease by or using certain medicines).

FDA pregnancy category B. Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical should not be used on a child younger than 12 years old.

Do not share this medication with other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have.

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If this does happen, rinse with water. When treating a cold sore, apply the medication only the outer part of your lips.

Do not apply acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical to your genitals.

Do not apply sunscreen, lip balm, or cosmetics to the treated cold sore area.

Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people. Avoid touching an infected area and then touching your eyes. Wash your hands frequently to prevent passing the infection to others.

Usual Adult Dose for Herpes Simplex Labialis:

Apply a quantity sufficient to the affected area 5 times a day for 5 days

Comments:
-Initiate therapy as early as possible after the first signs/symptoms (i.e., during the prodrome or when lesions appear).
-Each dose should be applied to sufficiently cover the affected area, including the outer margin.

Use: For the early treatment of recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores) to reduce the likelihood of ulcerative cold sores and to shorten the lesion healing time

Usual Pediatric Dose for Herpes Simplex Labialis:

6 years or older: Apply a quantity sufficient to the affected area 5 times a day for 5 days

Comments:
-Initiate therapy as early as possible after the first signs/symptoms (i.e., during the prodrome or when lesions appear).
-Each dose should be applied to sufficiently cover the affected area, including the outer margin.

Use: For the early treatment of recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores) to reduce the likelihood of ulcerative cold sores and to shorten the lesion healing time