Docosanol, Topical

What are other names for this medicine?

Type of medicine: antiviral

Generic and brand names: docosanol, topical; Abreva

What is this medicine used for?

This medicine is used on the skin to treat cold sores or fever blisters on the face or lips. It shortens healing time and relieves symptoms such as tingling, pain, burning, or itching.

How do I use it?

This medicine works best if you use it at the first sign of a cold sore or fever blister. Use this medicine on the skin only. Keep the cream away from your eyes, the inside of your mouth, and your genitals. If some of the medicine gets into your eyes, rinse them with plenty of cool water.

Before and after you use this medicine, wash your skin with mild soap and warm water. Rinse and pat dry with a soft towel. Put a thin layer of medicine on the area where you need it and rub it in gently.

Use this medicine exactly as your healthcare provider prescribes. If your healthcare provider has not given you specific instructions, follow the directions that come in the medicine package. Do not give this medicine to children without your health care provider's approval.

What should I watch out for?

If your sores do not get better in 10 days, or if they get worse, check with your healthcare provider.

Do not use cosmetics while you are using this medicine because the combination can irritate the skin.

Females of childbearing age: Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine without your healthcare provider's approval.

What are the possible side effects?

Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Common: Irritation, burning, redness, scabbing, headache.

What products might interact with this medicine?

No significant drug interactions have been reported. Do not use cosmetics that may irritate the sores.

Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, nonprescription, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins) with you. Be sure that you tell all healthcare providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.

How should I store this medicine?

Store this medicine at room temperature. Keep the container tightly closed. Protect it from heat, high humidity, and bright light.

This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Ask your pharmacist for the best way to dispose of outdated medicine or medicine you have not used. Do not throw medicine in the trash.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Do not share medicines with other people.