Penciclovir

Penciclovir treats cold sores of the lips caused by herpes simplex. For the best results, this medication should be applied at the first sign of a cold sore.

Penciclovir Overview

Reviewed: September 29, 2013
Updated: 

Penciclovir is a prescription medication used to treat cold sores on the face or lips caused by herpes simplex virus. This medication belongs to a group of drugs called antivirals. It works by preventing the herpes simplex virus from growing.

Penciclovir comes as a cream to be applied every 2 hours during waking hours for a period of 4 days. Treatment should be started with the first sign of a cold sore.

Common side effects include headache and numbness or irritation at the site of application.

How was your experience with Penciclovir?

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What are you taking Penciclovir for?

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  • Other
  • Epstein-barr Virus Infections
  • Herpes Labialis
  • Herpesviridae Infections

How long have you been taking it?

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  • Less than a week
  • A couple weeks
  • A month or so
  • A few months
  • A year or so
  • Two years or more

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Uses of Penciclovir

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Penciclovir is a prescription medication used to treat cold sores on the face or lips caused by herpes simplex virus.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Penciclovir Brand Names

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Penciclovir may be found in some form under the following brand names:

Penciclovir Drug Class

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Side Effects of Penciclovir

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Common side effects include:

  • headache
  • numbness or irritation at the site of application
  • rash
  • swelling
  • pain

This is not a complete list of penciclovir side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.