Denavir is used on the lips and faces of adults to treat cold sores caused by herpes simplex virus. Denavir does not cure herpes infections but decreases pain and itching if applied when the earliest symptoms first appear.

Medication Information

Denavir is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?

Denavir comes as a cream. It is usually used externally every 2 hours while you are awake for 4 days. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist or doctor to explain any part you do not understand. Use Denavir exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Use Denavir as soon as possible after symptoms appear.

Clean and dry the area before applying the cream to avoid spreading the infection. Rub the cream in gently, using enough cream to cover all sores completely.

Continue to use Denavir even if you feel well. Do not stop using Denavir without talking to your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before using Denavir,

tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Denavir, acyclovir (Zovirax), or any other drugs. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, including vitamins.
tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Denavir, call your doctor.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it and apply any remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can Denavir cause?

Although side effects from Denavir are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
headache
irritation at the site of application

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep Denavir in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor. Denavir should only be used on the lips and face. Avoid getting it in your eyes. Keep the infected area clean and dry.

Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the Denavir, call your doctor.