Acyclovir/Hydrocortisone (On the skin)
ay-SYE-kloe-vir, hye-droe-KOR-ti-sone
Treats cold sores.
Drug classes
Anti-Inflammatory, Antiviral (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical combination is used to treat the symptoms of herpes simplex virus infection on the lips and around the mouth (cold sores). Although this medicine will not cure herpes simplex, it may help the sores to heal faster and relieve some of the pain and discomfort. Acyclovir is an antiviral agent (treats a virus) and hydrocortisone is a steroid (cortisone-like) medicine.
This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Cream
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
Use this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.
Clean and dry the affected area before you apply this medicine.
Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Do not rub the cream into the cold sore. Rubbing may spread the virus to other areas around your mouth or make your cold sore worse.
Do not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.
Do not bathe, shower, or swim until 30 minutes after you apply the medicine.
Take all of the medicine in your prescription to clear up your infection, even if you feel better after the first few doses.
Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Missed dose: Apply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Do not put cosmetics or skin care products on the treated skin.
When Not To Use
This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to acyclovir or hydrocortisone.
Warnings
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have a weak immune system.
Do not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Dryness, itching, redness, swelling, burning, or stinging where the cream is applied
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Changes in skin color where the cream is applied
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Xerese
There may be other brand names for this medicine.