For cold sore.
Brand Name(s): Abreva
Generic Name: Docosanol
Instructions
DO NOT take this medicine by mouth.
Clean and dry the area to be treated before applying the medicine.
Apply a thin layer to the affected area and rub it in.
Follow the instructions on the package to use this medicine correctly.
Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.
This medicine should only be used on the skin.
Avoid getting the medicine in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash the medicine off your fingers after applying it.
Gently rub the medicine into area until evenly spread.
Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.
If medicine gets in your eyes, rinse well with cool water.
Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.
You may stop using this medicine if you no longer have symptoms.
This medicine is available over-the-counter and does not require a prescription.
Do not freeze the medicine.
Do not take the medicine more than five times during 24 hours.
Cautions
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
Do not use the medication any more than instructed.
It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.
During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.
Do not let other people touch the skin where this medicine is applied.
If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.
Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.
Contact your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or worsens after 10 days of using this medicine.
Seek medical attention if you see any signs of a serious infection. These signs include pain, increasing redness or pus where this medicine is being used.
Side Effects
The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.
- skin irritation where medicine is applied
A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.
Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice.
There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English. Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below. You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist.
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More information about DOCOSANOL - TOPICAL
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Selected from data included with permission and copyright by First DataBank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.
Conditions of Use: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. The display and use of this drug information is subject to express Terms of Use.
