Docosanol skin cream

What is this medication?

DOCOSANOL (doe KOE san ole) skin cream treats herpes virus infections of the face and mouth. These are also known as cold sores or fever blisters. This medicine will help the sores heal faster and relieve the pain or discomfort.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Abreva

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

•immune system problems

•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 medication?

This medicine is for external use on the skin or lips. Do not use in the eye. Follow the directions on the label. Wash hands before and after use. Apply a thin layer of cream to cover the affected area completely. For best results, begin using this medicine at the first signs of a cold sore (tingle). Use your medicine at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

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 may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other skin products on the affected area without telling your doctor or health care professional.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Even though you are using this medicine you can still pass herpes to another person. Try to keep the sores (blisters) from making contact with another person's skin.

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better after 10 days or if they get worse.

You can apply non-medicated cosmetics over the treated area. In order to prevent the spread of infection, use an applicator, like a cotton swab, to apply cosmetics or sunscreen over the cold sore.

Do not get this medicine in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

•skin irritation, burning, or itching

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.