Penciclovir is an antiviral drug used to treat herpes virus infections, including herpes labialis. This drug is available in the form of cream which will be applied to the affected skin.
Penciclovir works by inhibiting the proliferation of viruses, so the immune system can work more optimally and complaints can subside. Keep in mind that this drug cannot cure or prevent the transmission of herpes.
Penciclovir trademark:-
What is Penciclovir
| group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Anti Virus |
| Benefit | Treating herpes virus infections, including herpes labialis |
| Used by | Adults and children over 12 years old |
| Penciclovir for pregnant and lactating women | Category B: Animal studies have not shown any risk to the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. Penciclovir cream does not pass into breast milk. However, consult your doctor before using this medication if you are breastfeeding. |
| Drug form | Cream |
Precautions Before Using Penciclovir
Some things to consider before using penciclovir cream are:
- Do not use penciclovir if you are allergic to this drug. Always tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
- Penciclovir cream is only for use on the skin of the outer lips. Do not put this medicine in your mouth, eyes, or nose. If accidentally on the part, rinse immediately with water.
- Tell your doctor if you have a weakened immune system.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements, or herbal products.
- Call your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction to any medicine after taking penciclovir.
Dosage and Instructions for Use of Penciclovir
To treat herpes labialis, the dose of penciclovir 1% cream preparation is applied 8 times a day, every 2 hours, for 4 days, starting from the time the initial symptoms of herpes labialis appear.
How to Use Penciclovir Correctly
Follow the doctor's advice and read the information listed on the drug packaging label before using penciclovir cream. To get optimal treatment results, use penciclovir cream as soon as possible since the initial symptoms of herpes labialis appear.
Always wash your hands before and after using penciclovir cream. Clean and dry the area of the skin to be smeared with the drug. Next, apply the medicine slowly until it covers the infected skin area.
To speed up the healing of herpes labialis, use penciclovir cream regularly for the time recommended by your doctor. Try to take this medicine at the same time each day.
The use of penciclovir cream cannot prevent the spread of herpes. Therefore, avoid close or close contact with other people until the symptoms of herpes are completely cured.
Store penciclovir cream in a closed container in a cool room. Protect this medication from direct sunlight, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Interactions of Penciclovir with Other Drugs
Talk to your doctor if you plan to use penciclovir cream with other medications, supplements, or herbal products. The use of penciclovir cream may decrease the effectiveness of the drug talimogen laherparepvec in treating skin cancer.
Side Effects and Dangers of Penciclovir
Some of the side effects that may appear after using penciclovir cream are:
- Pain, burning, redness, itching, and irritation in the area of the skin that is applied to the drug
- Headache
- Changes in the sense of taste
Check with your doctor if the side effects above don't go away or get worse. Immediately see a doctor if an allergic reaction occurs to the drug which is characterized by symptoms such as rash, itching, shortness of breath, swelling of the lips, mouth and face, after applying penciclovir cream.
