GENERIC NAME: PENCICLOVIR CREAM - TOPICAL (pen-SICK-low-veer)
BRAND NAME(S): Denavir
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used for reoccurring herpes (cold sores or fever blisters) in adults.
HOW TO USE: Use as directed, applying a thin layer to the affected area. Use at the first sign of tingling, itching, redness or swelling in the affected area. This medication should only be used on sores of the lips and face. Avoid use in or near the eyes, as irritation may occur. Wash your hands before and after applying this medication.
SIDE EFFECTS: At the site of application, mild redness, irritation, rash, or mild numbness may occur. Headache or change in sense of smell may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: swelling of the mouth or throat, hives. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking penciclovir, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk after applying it to the skin. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you may take. 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.
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.
- Fever - Get the facts on fever treatment (in children and adults). Learn ways to bring down a high fever and know the signs of other serious types of major illness.
- Herpes Simplex Infections (Cold Sores, Non-Genital) - Learn about cold sore(s) (herpes simplex infection) causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment (with OTC medication and prescription medications).
- Genital Herpes In Women - Learn about genital herpes, which is an STD transmitted during sexual contact. Symptoms include itching, tingling, and redness of the skin followed by a blister formation.
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