Denavir

The active ingredient in Denavir is penciclovir and the mechanism of action is simply put Denavir (penciclovir) is a topical antiviral medicine and this inhibits the herpes simplex virus (HSV) from replicating.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Denavir. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Denavir:

• Do not take it by mouth. Topical medications like Denavir are only for use on the lips and face. If this medication goes into your nose or mouth, rinse it with water.
• Denavir is solely indicated for the treatment of cold sores on the lips and face.
• For optimal results, begin taking penciclovir as soon as you feel a cold sore developing (tingling, redness, itching, or blisters).
• Wash your hands before and after using Denavir cream.
• Apply a thin layer of penciclovir to the cold sore spot. Use enough medicine to cover only the cold sore itself, or the skin where you experience tingling or other early signs of a developing cold sore. Rub carefully until the drug has disappeared.
• Do not use Denavir cream on the inside of your nose, near your eyes, or on your genitals.
• Denavir cream is typically used every two hours for four consecutive days. Follow your doctor's dosing recommendations carefully.

The most common side effects of Denavir seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Application site reaction such as skin irritation.
• Changes in taste.
• Rash in the affected area.
• Local numbness.

Some individuals may experience serious adverse reactions while using Denavir. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• An allergic reaction to the medicine such as skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Denavir. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Denavir, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• You should avoid using Denavir cream if you are allergic to penciclovir.
• Because penciclovir topical (for the skin) is not absorbed into the body, using it while pregnant or breastfeeding is unlikely to be dangerous.
• Denavir cream is not recommended for use by children under the age of 12.

You should not use Denavir if you are allergic to penciclovir.

Clinical studies showed that people who used Denavir had their cold sores heal half a day faster than those who used a placebo (4.5 days with Denavir versus 5 days with a placebo).

When Denavir is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions.

Typical dose of Denavir

Adults and children aged 12 years or older: Apply penciclovir cream to the afflicted area(s) every two hours while awake for four days. Start treatment as soon as the symptoms appear.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you recall. If your next dose is coming up soon, skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medication to make up for the missed dosage.

Store your Denavir at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. is the company that manufactures Denavir.

There are generic name versions available of Denavir.

There is no recommended way to stop using Denavir topical cream. However, if you need or want to stop using the medication, you must speak to your healthcare provider first.

It is generally thought to be safe and will not harm your unborn baby. However, talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant.

It is generally thought to be safe to use while breastfeeding. However, talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed.