Docosanol
Pronunciation
(doe KOE san ole)
U.S. Brand Names
Abreva® [OTC]
Synonyms
Behenyl Alcohol;
n-Docosanol
Generic Available
No
Use
Treatment of herpes simplex of the face or lips
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to docosanol or any component of the formulation
Warnings/Precautions
For external use only. Do not apply to inside of mouth or around eyes. Not for use in children <12 years of age.
Adverse Reactions
Limited information; headache reported (frequency similar to placebo)
Stability
Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); do not freeze.
Mechanism of Action
Prevents viral entry and replication at the cellular level
Dosage
Children
12 years and Adults: Topical: Apply 5 times/day to affected area of face or lips. Start at first sign of cold sore or fever blister and continue until healed.
Patient Education
Wash hands before and after applying cream. Begin treatment at first tingle of cold sore or fever blister. Rub into area gently, but completely. Do not apply directly to inside of mouth or around eyes. Contact prescriber if sore gets worse or does not heal within 10 days. Do not share this product with others, may spread infection.
Pregnancy/breast-feeding precautions: Inform prescriber if you are or intend to become pregnant. Consult prescriber if breast-feeding.
Anesthesia and Critical Care Concerns/Other Considerations
Do not apply directly to inside of mouth or around eyes.
Dental Health: Effects on Dental Treatment
No significant effects or complications reported
Dental Health: Vasoconstrictor/Local Anesthetic Precautions
No information available to require special precautions
Dental Comment
Wash hands before and after applying cream. Begin treatment at first tingle of cold sore or fever blister. Rub into area gently, but completely. Do not apply directly to inside of mouth or around eyes. Contact healthcare provider if sore gets worse or does not heal within 10 days. Do not share this product with others, may spread infection. Notify healthcare professional if pregnant or breast-feeding.
Dosage Forms
Cream: 10% (2 g)