Drugs & Vitamins

Abreva Active Ingredients: Docosanol Representative Names: Abreva What is docosanol skin cream? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should I use this medicine? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with docosanol? What side effects may I notice from using docosanol? What should I watch for while taking docosanol? Where can I keep my medicine? What is docosanol skin cream? (Back to top) DOCOSANOL (Abreva™) skin cream treats herpes virus infections of the face and mouth. These are also known as cold sores or fever blisters. Docosanol will not cure herpes infections; it will help the sores heal faster and relieve the pain or discomfort. Generic docosanol cream is not available. What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? (Back to top) They need to know if you have any of these conditions: •suppressed immune function •an unusual or allergic reaction to docosanol, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives •pregnant or trying to get pregnant •breast-feeding How should I use this medicine? (Back to top) Docosanol skin cream is only for external use on the skin or lips; do not use in the eye. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Use a finger cot or rubber glove so that you do not spread the infection to another site. Apply a thin layer of cream to cover all lesions adequately. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed on the label. What if I miss a dose? (Back to top) If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses. What drug(s) may interact with docosanol? (Back to top) No interactions have been shown between other medicines and docosanol cream. Tell your prescriber or health care professional about other skin products that you are using, including non-prescription skin products. Check with your prescriber or health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines. What side effects may I notice from using docosanol? (Back to top) Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): •skin irritation, burning, or itching •skin rash What should I watch for while taking docosanol? (Back to top) Even though you are using docosanol you can still pass herpes to another person. Try to keep the sores (blisters) from making contact with another person's skin. Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve after 1 week. Docosanol works best when applied very early in the course of an infection. Begin treatment at the first signs of infection (such as tingling, itching, or pain in the affected area). Do not get the cream in your eyes; if you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) Keep out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Last Updated:08/17/2000 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.