Denavir (Penciclovir) Drug Information: Medication Guide and Patient Information

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May 27, 2012

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Genital Herpes In Women »

What are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that can be transferred from one person to another through any type of sexual contact. STDs are sometimes referred to as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) since they involve the transmission of a disease-causing microorganism from one person to another during sexual activity. It is important to realize that sexual contact includes more than just sexual intercourse (vaginal and anal). Sexual contact includes kissing, oral-genital contact, and the use of sexual "toys," such as vibrators. STDs probably have been around for thousands of years, but the most dangerous of these conditions, infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), was only recognized in recent decades.

Many STDs are treatable, but effective cures are lacking for others, such as HIV, HPV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. Even gonorrhea, once easily cured, has become resistan...

Read the Genital Herpes In Women article »

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Denavir

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PATIENT INFORMATION

Denavir (penciclovir) is a prescription topical cream for the treatment of cold sores (recurrent herpes labialis) that occur on the face and lips. It is not a cure for cold sores and not all patients respond to it. Do not use if you are allergic to Denavir (penciclovir) or any of the ingredients in Denavir (penciclovir) cream. Before you use Denavir (penciclovir) , tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.

Directions: Wash your hands. Your face should be clean and dry. Apply a layer of Denavir (penciclovir) cream to cover only the cold sore area or the area of tingling (or other symptoms) before the cold sore appears. Rub in the cream until it disappears. Apply the cream every 2 hours during waking hours for 4 days. Even though Denavir (penciclovir) works at the blister stage, treatment should be started at the earliest sign of a cold sore (i.e. tingling, redness, itching, or bump). Wash your hands with soap and water after using Denavir (penciclovir) cream. Store Denavir (penciclovir) cream at room temperature (59°-86°F). Keep out of reach of children.

Possible side effects: Denavir (penciclovir) cream was well tolerated in clinical studies in patients with cold sores. The most frequently reported side effect was headache. Common skin-related side effects of Denavir (penciclovir) cream are application site reactions, local anesthesia, taste perversion, and rash.

Last reviewed on RxList: 12/9/2008
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.