Description

Cold Sore Cream – Aciclovir Cream 5%, 2g

Aciclovir 5% Cold Sore Cream is a topical antiviral medicine containing aciclovir 50mg/g, indicated for the treatment of herpes simplex virus infections affecting the lips and face, also known as herpes labialis or cold sores. It works selectively inside virus-infected cells to inhibit herpes simplex virus replication.

Cold Sore Cream – Aciclovir Cream 5%, 2g is a topical antiviral treatment containing aciclovir 50mg per gram (5% w/w) for herpes simplex virus infections of the lips and face, commonly known as cold sores or recurrent herpes labialis. Aciclovir works inside herpes-infected cells to interfere with viral DNA replication, helping limit multiplication of the herpes simplex virus. Treatment should begin as early as possible, ideally during the initial tingling, itching, burning or redness stage, although it may also be started once a blister has appeared. Apply a thin layer to the affected and immediately surrounding skin 5 times daily at approximately 4-hour intervals during the day, omitting the night-time application. Treatment is normally continued for 4 days and may be extended up to 10 days if healing has not occurred. Available through Dock Pharmacy, a legitimate, established GPhC-registered UK pharmacy.

Benefits

Aciclovir 5% Cream provides targeted antiviral treatment directly to cold sores on the lips and face.
It inhibits replication of herpes simplex virus inside infected cells.
Treatment can begin at the earliest tingling or redness stage before a full blister develops.
It may also be started once the cold sore is visible.
The small 2g tube is convenient for short-course topical treatment.
Topical treatment keeps systemic exposure relatively low.

How to Use

Wash your hands before applying the cream.
Apply a thin film to the cold sore and immediately surrounding skin.
Use 5 times daily, approximately every 4 hours during the day.
Omit the night-time application.
Start treatment as soon as possible, ideally when tingling, itching, burning or redness first appears.
Continue treatment for 4 days.
If the lesion has not healed, treatment may continue for up to 10 days.
If the cold sore is still present after 10 days, consult a doctor.
Wash your hands again after applying the cream.
Avoid unnecessary rubbing or touching of the cold sore to reduce irritation and transmission. Medicines.org.uk

Side Effects

Like all medicines, aciclovir cream can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.
Possible effects include temporary burning or stinging after application, itching and mild drying or flaking of the skin.
Some people may develop redness or contact dermatitis at the application site.
Very rarely, allergic reactions such as urticaria or angioedema may occur.
Stop using the cream and seek urgent medical advice if you develop severe swelling of the lips, face, tongue or throat, breathing difficulty or another serious allergic reaction.

Cautions

Do not use Aciclovir Cold Sore Cream if you are allergic to aciclovir, valaciclovir or any other ingredient.
Use only for cold sores affecting the external lips and face.
Do not apply inside the mouth or vagina.
Avoid contact with the eyes.
Do not use this cold sore cream to treat genital herpes or eye infections.
People with unusually severe or frequently recurring cold sores should seek medical advice.
People who are immunocompromised should consult a doctor rather than self-treating cold sores without professional guidance. Medicines.org.uk
Cold sores are contagious. Avoid kissing and sharing towels, lip products, utensils or other items that could spread the herpes simplex virus while lesions are active.

FAQ

What is Aciclovir Cream 5% used for?
Aciclovir 5% Cold Sore Cream is used for herpes simplex infections of the lips and face, commonly known as cold sores. Medicines.org.uk
What strength is Aciclovir Cold Sore Cream?
Each gram contains 50mg aciclovir, equivalent to 5% w/w. Medicines.org.uk
Is Aciclovir Cream an antiviral?
Yes. Aciclovir is a topical antiviral medicine used against herpes simplex virus.
Does Aciclovir Cream cure herpes?
No. Aciclovir treats individual outbreaks by limiting viral replication, but it does not eliminate latent herpes simplex virus from the body.
Does Aciclovir Cream help cold sores?
Yes. Aciclovir 5% cream is specifically licensed to treat cold sores caused by herpes simplex virus on the lips and face. Medicines.org.uk
When should I start applying Aciclovir Cream?
Start as early as possible, preferably when the first tingling, itching, burning or redness develops. Medicines.org.uk
Can I use Aciclovir after the blister has appeared?
Yes. Treatment can still be started during the later papule or blister stages. Medicines.org.uk
How often should I apply Aciclovir Cream?
Apply it 5 times daily at approximately 4-hour intervals during waking hours. Medicines.org.uk
Do I need to apply Aciclovir Cream during the night?
No. The night-time application is omitted. Medicines.org.uk
How long should I use Aciclovir Cold Sore Cream?
Treatment normally continues for 4 days. If healing has not occurred, treatment may continue for up to 10 days. Medicines.org.uk
What if my cold sore has not healed after 10 days?
Consult a doctor if the lesion is still present after 10 days. Medicines.org.uk
Can children use Aciclovir Cream?
Yes. The current UK SmPC gives the topical dosing instructions for adults and children. Medicines.org.uk
Can I use Aciclovir Cream on my lips?
Yes, on external cold sores affecting the lips and surrounding facial skin. Medicines.org.uk
Can Aciclovir Cream be used inside the mouth?
No. It should not be applied inside the mouth.
Where can I buy Aciclovir Cream 5% 2g in the UK?
Aciclovir 5% cold sore cream is available through UK pharmacies and authorised medicine retailers, subject to stock availability. It may also be obtained through Dock Pharmacy UK, a legitimate, established GPhC-registered provider. Pharmacy Inspections

Aciclovir 5% Cold Sore Cream 2g is a topical antiviral treatment for herpes simplex cold sores on the lips and face. Each gram contains 50mg aciclovir. Apply a thin layer 5 times daily at approximately 4-hour intervals during waking hours, ideally starting at the earliest tingling, burning or redness stage. Treatment normally continues for 4 days and may be extended for up to 10 days if needed.