Acyclovir ointment 5% is indicated in the management of initial herpes genitalis and in limited non-life threatening mucocutaneous Herpes simplex virus infections in immunocompromised patients. In clinical trials of initial herpes genitalis. Acyclovir Ointment 5% has shown a decrease in healing time and in some cases a decrease in duration of viral shedding and duration of pain. In studies in immunocompromised patients with mainly herpes labialis, there was a decrease in duration of viral shedding and a slight decrease in duration of pain.

By contrast, in studies of recurrent herpes genitalis and of herpes labialis in nonimmunocompromised patients, there was no evidence of clinical benefit, there was some decrease in duration of viral shedding and a slight decrease in the duration of pain.

Diagnosis

Whereas cutaneous lesions associated with Herpes simplex infections are often characteristic, the finding of multinucleated giant cells in smears prepared from lesion exudate or scrapings may assist in the diagnosis. Positive cultures for herpes simplex virus offer a reliable means for confirmations of the diagnosis. In genital herpes, appropriate examinations should be performed to rule out other sexually transmitted diseases.

Apply sufficient quantity to adequately cover all lesions every 3 hours 6 times per day for 7 days. The dose size per application will vary depending upon the total lesion area but should approximate a one-half inch ribbon of ointment per 4 square inches of surface area. A finger cot or rubber glove should be used when applying acyclovir to prevent other body sites and transmission of infection to other persons. Therapy should be initiated as early as possible following onset of signs and symptoms.

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