Abreva
Ingredient: Docosanol
Dosage Form:
Cream: Docosanol 10%
Cream Pump: Docosanol 10%
FDA Indication/Dosages:
Use for the treatment of cold sores or fever blisters on the face or lips by shortening the healing time and duration of tingling, pain, burning, and/or itching.
Wash hands before and after applying. Apply to affected area on face or lips at the first sign of cold sore/fever blister. Rub cream in gently but completely. Use five times a day until healed.
Pharmacology: Docosanol is an antiviral agent that blocks the entry of lipid-enveloped viruses, including herpes simplex type 1, into cells. Docosanol does not block viral synthesis or its replication directly. It seems to modify the cell membrane to prevent the virus from invading healthy cells. If the virus cannot enter the cell, it cannot complete replication. Because of this mechanism of action, docosanol is most effective when started early in the course of an outbreak. In vitro half-life is approximately three hours. Docosanol is not absorbed systematically.
Evaluation: Fever blisters are caused by herpes simplex type 1 virus and usually occur on the outside of the lips. They appear as a raised, fluid-filled lesion that eventually breaks, forming a light or yellow crust over the lesion. The lesions usually disappear in two weeks. Other symptoms include pain, fever, halitosis, salivation, and malaise. Fever blisters are also known as cold sores and are highly contagious when present. Factors such as stress, illness, fever, and exposure to sunlight may trigger an outbreak. A burning or itching sensation in the area of the blister may precede an outbreak by one to three days. Fever blisters should not be confused with canker sores (aphthous ulcers). Canker sores are not contagious and occur on the inside of the mouth. Pain is usually the only symptoms of canker sores.
Contraindications/Precautions: Do not use in or near the eyes. Do not use on cold sores for more than ten days or if symptoms become worse.
Adverse Effects: Local irritation may occur.
Patient Consultation:
Protect from freezing.
Ask the patient if this is a reoccurring symptom. If so, they may need to see a physician.
Avoid directly applying inside the mouth.
Do not share containers. This will avoid spreading the herpes simplex 1 virus.
