What is penciclovir skin cream?
PENCICLOVIR (Denavir^®) is an antiviral agent. Penciclovir treats the symptoms of herpes virus infections on the lips or face. Penciclovir will not cure herpes infections; it will help the sores heal faster and may help relieve the pain or discomfort. Generic penciclovir cream is not yet available.

What should my health care professional know before I use penciclovir?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•suppressed immune function
•an unusual or allergic reaction to penciclovir, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?
Penciclovir skin cream is only for external use on the lips or face; do not use in the eye or inside the mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash your hands before and after use. Apply a thin layer of cream to cover all sores (blisters). Begin applying at the first sign of blisters or as soon as you have symptoms (e.g., tingling sensation, burning). Apply every 2 hours while you are awake or as instructed by your prescriber or health care professional. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional.

What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with penciclovir?
No interactions have been shown between other medicines and penciclovir cream.

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about other skin products you are using, including non-prescription skin products. Check with your prescriber or health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What side effects may I notice from using penciclovir?
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•dulled sensitivity to touch
•altered taste sensation
•skin irritation or itching
•skin rash

What should I watch for while taking penciclovir?
Even though you are using penciclovir, you can still spread the herpes infection to another person. Try to keep the sores (blisters) from making contact with another person's skin.

Penciclovir works best when applied very early in the course of an infection. Begin treatment at the first sign of infection (such as tingling, itching, or pain in the affected area).

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

Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature below 30 degrees C (86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.