What is the most important information I should know about acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical?
Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical will not cure or prevent herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection.
Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical. Acyclovir and hydrocortisone will not prevent the spread of genital herpes. Avoid sexual intercourse or use a latex condom to prevent spreading the virus to others.
Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical is for use for cold sores on the lips and around the mouth. This medication will not treat herpes lesions that affect the genitals or the eyes.
Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared.
Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have severe burning, stinging, or irritation of treated skin.
What is acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical?
Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection.
Hydrocortisone is a topical (for the skin) steroid. It reduces the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation.
The combination of acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical (for the skin) is used to treat cold sores in people who are at least 12 years old.
This medication will not cure or prevent cold sores caused by herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection.
Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to acyclovir (Zovirax) or hydrocortisone.
To make sure you can safely use acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical, tell your doctor if you have a weak immune system (caused by disease by or using certain medicines).
FDA pregnancy category B. Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical should not be used on a child younger than 12 years old.
Do not share this medication with other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have.
How should I use acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical?
Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical is for use for cold sores on the lips and around the mouth. This medication will not treat herpes lesions that affect the genitals or the eyes.
Treatment with acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).
Wash your hands before and after applying the medicine. Also wash the skin area to be treated.
Apply a thin layer of acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical cream to cover the cold sore or tingly area. Do not rub the cold sore, to avoid making it worse or spreading the virus to other areas of your mouth. Do not cover the treated skin with a bandage.
Do not bathe, shower, or swim for at least 30 minutes after applying this medication.
Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical cream may be applied 5 times daily for 5 days. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared.
Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks of treatment.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical is unlikely to occur.
What should I avoid while using acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical?
Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If this does happen, rinse with water. When treating a cold sore, apply the medication only the outer part of your lips.
Do not apply acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical to your genitals.
Do not apply sunscreen, lip balm, or cosmetics to the treated cold sore area.
Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people. Avoid touching an infected area and then touching your eyes. Wash your hands frequently to prevent passing the infection to others.
What are the possible side effects of acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have severe burning, stinging, or irritation of treated skin.
Less serious side effects may include:
- mild burning or tingling after applying the medicine;
- skin dryness or flaking;
- bitter taste in your mouth after applying the medicine; or
- skin redness or discoloration;
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical?
It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
Where can I get more information?
Your pharmacist can provide more information about acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical.
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
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