acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical

What is the most important information I should know about acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical?

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

What is acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical?

Acyclovir is an antiviral medicine. Hydrocortisone is a steroid.

Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical (for the skin) is a combination medicine that is used to treat cold sores in adults and children at least 6 years old.

This medicine will not cure or prevent cold sores caused by herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection.

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.

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?

Tell your doctor if you have ever had a weak immune system (caused by disease by or using certain medicines).

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should I use acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Start using this medicine as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, itching, or redness). Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical may not be effective if taken after you already have symptoms.

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.

Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical is usually applied 5 times per day for 5 days in a row. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.

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 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 the spread of infection.

Do not share this medicine with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have.

Avoid getting this medicine in your eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina.

What are the possible side effects of acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical?

Common side effects may include:

• mild burning or tingling after applying the medicine;
• skin dryness or flaking;
• swelling; 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?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical.