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Pronunciation:

(doe KOE san ole)

U.S. Brand Names:

Abreva® [OTC]

Synonyms:

Behenyl Alcohol; n-Docosanol

Generic Available:

Use:

Treatment of herpes simplex of the face or lips

Contraindications:

Hypersensitivity to docosanol or any component of the formulation

Warnings/Precautions:

For external use only. Do not apply to inside of mouth or around eyes. Not for use in children <12 years of age.

Adverse Reactions:

Limited information; headache reported (frequency similar to placebo)

Stability:

Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); do not freeze.

Mechanism of Action:

Prevents viral entry and replication at the cellular level

Dosage:

Children 12 years and Adults: Topical: Apply 5 times/day to affected area of face or lips. Start at first sign of cold sore or fever blister and continue until healed.

Patient Education:

Wash hands before and after applying cream. Begin treatment at first tingle of cold sore or fever blister. Rub into area gently, but completely. Do not apply directly to inside of mouth or around eyes. Contact prescriber if sore gets worse or does not heal within 10 days. Do not share this product with others, may spread infection. Pregnancy/breast-feeding precautions: Inform prescriber if you are or intend to become pregnant. Consult prescriber if breast-feeding.

Anesthesia and Critical Care Concerns/Other Considerations:

Do not apply directly to inside of mouth or around eyes.

Dental Health: Effects on Dental Treatment:

No significant effects or complications reported

Dental Health: Vasoconstrictor/Local Anesthetic Precautions:

No information available to require special precautions

Dental Comment:

Wash hands before and after applying cream. Begin treatment at first tingle of cold sore or fever blister. Rub into area gently, but completely. Do not apply directly to inside of mouth or around eyes. Contact healthcare provider if sore gets worse or does not heal within 10 days. Do not share this product with others, may spread infection. Notify healthcare professional if pregnant or breast-feeding.

Dosage Forms:

Cream: 10% (2 g)

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