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.