What is Sitavig?
Sitavig is an acyclovir prescription medication used to treat recurrent herpes labialis in adults who have a normal immune system. Acyclovir is a prescription medicine that slows down the growth and spread of the herpesvirus in the body. Acyclovir does not cure the herpes virus but can reduce the symptoms. Sitavig buccal tablet is used in a single dose under the upper lips, above the canine tooth.
Sitavig is a member of a group of antiviral drugs called synthetic nucleoside analogs. Acyclovir stops the spread of herpes in the body. Sitavig can only be used to treat cold sores that appear on the lips. It will not cure herpes genitalis and may not prevent the spread of herpes genitalis.
Side effects of Sitavig
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat,
Sitavig may cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Purple or red pinpoints under the skin that bleed easily or bruise easily;
- Changes in behaviour
- Confusion, hallucinations,
- Signs of kidney problems include little or no urination, painful or difficult urination, swelling of your ankles or feet, and fatigue or shortness of breath.
Sitavig may cause the following side effects:
- Mild skin irritation
- Rash, itching;
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea;
- Headache
- Mouth pain when using a buccal tab
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.
Similar/related drugs
Acyclovir, Valacyclovir, Valtrex, Zovirax, and Tetracaine topical
Before you take this drug
Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that Sitavig will be safe for you:
- Kidney disease
- A weak immune system can be caused by illness or certain medicines.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing. Sitavig can cause problems if you are breastfeeding. Consult your doctor if you are concerned about potential risks.
How to take Sitavig?
Follow the directions on your prescription label, as well as all medication guides or instruction sheets. Read all the instructions on the prescription label. Sitavig should be taken as soon as the symptoms appear (such as tingling or burning). Use the buccal tablet no later than 1 hour after first noticing the core symptoms (such as tingling, burning, or blisters).
Please read and follow all instructions that accompany your medication, if you don't understand them please ask your pharmacist or physician for clarification. If the instructions don't make sense to you, ask your physician or pharmacist. You should not crush, chew, or swallow the buccal tablet. Place the flat surface of the buccal tablet on your gums, on the same side as the cold sore. Let the tablet dissolve in your mouth all day. While the buccal tablet remains in place, you can eat and drink as normal.
Sitavig buccal tablets should not be given to young children. Choking may occur. Sitavig should be taken with plenty of water to ensure that your kidneys are working correctly. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
Instructions for use
Take Sitavig within an hour of the first symptoms of a cold sore. These include itching, redness, burning, and tingling. This should occur before a cold sore develops.
- You should apply the buccal tablet to the side of the mouth where you have cold sores.
- The buccal tablet is applied just above the incisor teeth on your upper gum.
- You should not apply it to your lips or cheeks.
- Sitavig should be applied again immediately if it does not adhere to your upper gingiva or falls off within six hours of application. Apply another Sitavig to your upper gum if this tablet doesn't stay in place.
- If the buccal tablet is lost or if you have swallowed it, do not apply it again.
- If you have swallowed a buccal tab within 6 hours after applying it, then drink some water and apply a new one to your upper gum.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for Herpes simplex labialis:
Immunocompetent host:
Use 50 mg (1 buccal tab) in a single dose on the gum area above (canine fossa).
Comments:
Tablets should be used within an hour of the prodromal symptoms appearing and before any herpes labialis signs appear.
The tablet should be placed on the side of the mouth where the symptoms of herpes labialis are present.
The use of buccal tablets has not been tested in subjects with immunocompromised immune systems.
Use: To treat recurrent cold sores caused by herpes simplex labia (cold sores).
What happens if I miss the dose?
If your next dose is approaching quickly, skip any missed ones and do not double up on one medication at once.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
While you are using a buccal tab, avoid brushing your teeth or chewing gum. You should also refrain from wearing an upper denture. Rinse your mouth gently. To prevent dry mouth, drink plenty of fluids.
Herpes is contagious, and you can spread it to others even while taking Sitavig. Do not let infected skin come into contact with other people. Avoid touching the infected part of your body and then touching your eyes. Hands should be washed frequently to avoid spreading the infection.
Warnings
Sitavig should not be taken if you have an allergy to acyclovir or valacyclovir (Valtrex). You should not take Sitavig if you have an allergy to valacyclovir or acyclovir.
Please read all the instructions on the label or package of your medication. Inform your healthcare provider about your medical conditions, allergies, and medicines.
Interaction with other drug
Sitavig may harm your kidneys if you are also taking certain medications for cancer, infection, osteoporosis, or organ rejection. Other drugs that can cause kidney damage include Advil, Motrin, and Aleve. Acyclovir may interact with other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you will begin or stop using.
