Description
What is Aciclovir 5% Cream?
Aciclovir 5% cream, also known as Acyclovir, is a cream used to treat cold sores.
Aciclovir cream is a generic version of Zovirax cold sore cream. It also contains the same active ingredient as Boots cold sore cream.
For more information about Allergies, click here.
How does Aciclovir work?
Aciclovir, an antiviral substance, is the main active ingredient in this cream.
You shouldn’t use Aciclovir cream if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in it.
You should talk to your doctor before using Aciclovir cream if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if your doctor has told you that you have a weakened immune system.
See our full range of allergy relief treatments.
How do you use Aciclovir?
Always use Aciclovir cream as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. The usual dosage is to apply the cream to the affected area 5 times a day, leaving 4 hours between each application. Continue treatment for 5 days, or up to 10 days if necessary.
Wash your hands before and after applying Aciclovir cream, and be careful not to touch your eyes until you have washed your hands. It’s also best not to touch your cold sores to avoid making them worse or spreading the infection.
In the future, you can start treatment at the first signs of a cold sore developing, such as tingling or itching.
If the treatment hasn’t worked after 10 days, or if your cold sore gets worse at any point, you should visit your doctor.
If you forget to apply the cream at any stage, apply it when you remember. Don’t apply a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose, though.
Don’t mix the cream with anything else before using it.
How effective is Aciclovir 5% Cream?
Aciclovir is a clinically proven cold sore treatment providing it is used as directed. It is most effective if treatment is started when the cold sore is in its very earliest stages, so when the skin around the mouth first begins to tingle and burn.