Why is this medication prescribed?
Penciclovir is
used on the lips and faces of adults to treat cold
sores caused by herpes simplex virus. Penciclovir
does not cure herpes infections but decreases pain
and itching if applied when the earliest symptoms
first appear.
This medication is sometimes prescribed
for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for
more information.
How should this medicine be used?
Penciclovir comes as a cream.
It is usually used externally every 2 hours while
you are awake for 4 days. Follow the directions on
your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor
or pharmacist or doctor to explain any part you do
not understand. Use penciclovir exactly as directed.
Do not use more or less of it or use it more often
than prescribed by your doctor. Use this medication
as soon as possible after symptoms appear.
Clean and dry the area before
applying the cream to avoid spreading the infection.
Rub the cream in gently, using enough cream to cover
all sores completely.
Continue to use penciclovir even
if you feel well. Do not stop using penciclovir without
talking to your doctor.
What special precautions should I follow?
Before using
penciclovir,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic
to penciclovir, acyclovir (Zovirax), or any other
drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription
and nonprescription medications you are taking,
including vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to
become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become
pregnant while taking penciclovir, call your doctor.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Apply the missed
dose as soon as you remember it and apply any remaining
doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals. However,
if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed
dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do
not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.
What side effects can this medication cause?
Although
side effects from penciclovir are not common, they
can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms
are severe or do not go away:
- headache
- irritation at the site of application
What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
Keep
this medication in the container it came in, tightly
closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at
room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture
(not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that
is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist
about the proper disposal of your medication.
What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments
with your doctor. Penciclovir should only be used
on the lips and face. Avoid getting it in your eyes.
Keep the infected area clean and dry.
Do not let anyone else use your
medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you
have about refilling your prescription. If you still
have symptoms of infection after you finish the penciclovir,
call your doctor.
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