GENERIC NAME: DOCOSANOL - TOPICAL (doe-COE-sah-noll)
BRAND NAME(S): Abreva
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat/shorten the healing time of cold sores and/or fever blisters. It works by blocking the virus that causes cold sores from entering the skin. This medication does not prevent cold sores or fever blisters from occurring nor should it be used to treat genital herpes or shingles.
HOW TO USE: Apply this medication directly onto the affected area (cold sore) usually 5 times daily; or as directed by your doctor. Start using this medicine at the first signs of infection (e.g., tingling, redness, bump, or itch) and apply enough of the medicine to cover the entire affected area.
SIDE EFFECTS: No side effects are expected to occur. If side effects occur, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: any allergies. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: other topical lip/mouth products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.
NOTES: Not applicable.
MISSED DOSE: Not applicable.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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