Brand Name: Denavir

Most Common Medical Uses
Penciclovir is an antiviral medication most commonly used topically for the treatment of recurrent cold sores. Penciclovir topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.

How to Take This Medication
Use penciclovir topical exactly as directed by your doctor. Penciclovir topical should be applied to cold sore lesions every 2 hours while awake for a period of four days, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Penciclovir topical should be used to treat cold sores on the lips and face only. For best results, treatment with penciclovir topical should begin as soon as possible after symptoms appear. Do not apply penciclovir topical to the inside of the nose or in or near the eyes, as it may cause irritation.

Possible Side Effects
Serious side effects have not been reported with the use of penciclovir topical. Other less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use penciclovir topical and talk to your doctor if you experience: headache; local numbness or tingling where the cream is applied; changes in taste; rash; or irritation at the application site. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Precautions
Do not use penciclovir topical during pregnancy or if you are breast-feeding a baby without first talking to your doctor.

Drug Interactions
Do not use other topical medications to treat the same area at them same time as penciclovir topical, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. No other medicines have been reported to interact with penciclovir topical. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking other prescription or over-the-counter medications during treatment with penciclovir topical.

Missed Dose
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and use only your next regularly scheduled dose.

Storage
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.

Notes
Do not apply penciclovir topical to the inside of the nose or in or near the eyes, as it may cause irritation. For best results, treatment with penciclovir topical should begin as soon as possible after symptoms appear. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter preparations.