What is Docosanol topical?
Use Docosanol Topical (for skin) to treat cold sores that appear on the lips and face. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of docosanol.
Side effects of Docosanol topical
If you experience any of the following symptoms: hives, feeling lightheaded, wheezing, difficulty breathing, or swelling on your face, lips, or tongue, get emergency medical attention. You may experience less serious side effects or none at all. There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Warnings
Please read all the instructions on the label or package of your medication. Inform your healthcare provider about your medical conditions, your allergies, and the medicines you are using.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to docosanol, then it is best not to use the topical. Consult your doctor before using docosanol topically if you're pregnant or nursing. This medicine should not be used on children younger than 12 without consulting a doctor.
Similar/related drugs
Acyclovir, Valacyclovir, Zovirax, Abreva, and Zovirax Cream
How to take Docosanol topical?
Follow the instructions on the label or those prescribed by your doctor. Take it only by mouth. Topical medicines are only to be used on the skin. If this medicine accidentally gets into your eyes or mouth, rinse with water. This medicine should be applied at the first sign that a cold sore is developing, such as tingling or redness. Do not forget to wash your hands after using docosanol. Do not apply docosanol to cosmetics. Use enough medication to cover the entire cold sore. Rub the medicine in completely and gently. If your symptoms don't improve in 10 days or worsen, call your doctor. Store away from moisture or heat at room temperature. Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for Herpes simplex:
At the first sign or fever blister, apply to the affected area of the face or lips five times per day.
Use: To treat cold sores and fever blisters that appear on the lips or face.
The usual pediatric dose for Herpes Simplex is:
If you are 12 years old or older, apply to the affected area of your lips or face five times per day at the first sign (i.e., tingling).
Use: To treat cold sores and fever blisters that appear on the lips or face.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are close to your next dose, skip the missed dose. Never apply two doses at once.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdoses of docosanol are not considered dangerous. If anyone accidentally swallows the medication, seek emergency medical care or call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
You should not share the docosanol topically with anyone else, even if you both have similar symptoms. This medicine can spread the virus. Do not get this medication in your mouth or eyes.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs that you take are unlikely to affect the medicine applied to your skin. Many drugs interact with each other. Inform your healthcare provider about the medicines you take, including vitamins and herbal remedies.
