Acivir cream

What is Acivir cream?

The active ingredient in Acivir cream is aciclovir, which works by preventing the replication of the herpes virus which causes cold sores. When applied to the affected area of the skin, Acivir cream works to reduce the duration and severity of cold sore outbreaks.

Acivir cream is applied directly to the affected area of the skin, usually 5 times a day for 4 days for cold sores and 5 times a day for 5 days for genital herpes. It is important to apply the cream as soon as possible after the first signs of an outbreak, such as tingling or burning, on the lips.

How does Acivir cream work?

When applied to the skin, Acivir cream is absorbed into the affected cells, where it is converted into an active form by an enzyme specific to the herpes virus . This active form of aciclovir then works by interfering with the ability of the virus to replicate and spread to other cells in the body, thereby reducing the severity and duration of symptoms.

Acivir cream is most effective when used at the earliest sign of a herpes outbreak, such as tingling or burning on the skin. It is important to use the cream as directed by your doctor, and to avoid applying it to areas of the skin with open wounds or sores.

What doses of Acivir cream are there?

Acivir cream comes in a 5% w/w strength. A clinical study has found that Acivir cream (5%) accelerated the healing process in patients suffering from cold sores .

How to use Acivir cream

It is best to follow your doctor’s prescription and read the patient information leaflet that comes with it before using Acivir cream. You can however follow these general guidelines when it comes to using Acivir: 

• Rinse your hands with soap and water.
• Use a gentle soap and water to wash the skin's affected region, and then pat it dry.
• Onto the tip of your finger, squeeze a tiny bit of the Acivir cream (approximately 1 cm in length).
• Apply the cream gently, covering the entire cold sore or lesion, to the skin area that is afflicted.
• Till the cream is completely absorbed, massage it into the skin.
• Once the cream is on your hands, wash them once more.
• For five to ten days, or until the genital warts have healed, apply the cream five times per day, at intervals of around four hours.

How long does it take for Acivir cream to work?

The duration of time it takes for your cold sores to get better can depend on how severe your condition is. It can also depend on how you react to the treatment.

It is best to keep your doctor updated on any side effects, changes and reactions that you may notice while using Acivir cream.

What should I do if I make a mistake when using Acivir cream?

If you have applied more than the recommended dose, gently remove it with a fresh tissue or cloth. Avoid vigorously rubbing the irritated area because this could make it worse. Do not apply a double dose to compensate for a missed one. It is best to follow doctor's instructions and read the patient information leaflet that comes within the package before using Acivir cream.