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Aciclovir 5% Cream - 2g

Aciclovir 5% Cream - 2g

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Aciclovir Cream 5% for Cold Sore Treatment

 

You can use this topical antiviral medication to treat cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus. The cream contains 5% aciclovir, which works by stopping the virus from multiplying in your skin cells. This 2g tube provides enough treatment for multiple applications during an outbreak.

When you apply the cream at the first sign of a cold sore, it can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms. The medication is most effective when used early in the outbreak, ideally when you first notice tingling or burning sensations around your lips.

 

How This Antiviral Cream Works

 

The active ingredient penetrates infected skin cells and interferes with the herpes virus's ability to reproduce. Once inside the cell, it becomes activated by viral enzymes and blocks the virus from creating new copies of itself. This action helps limit the spread of infection to surrounding healthy tissue.

You'll typically notice improvement within a few days of starting treatment. The cream helps reduce pain, itching, and the formation of new lesions while promoting faster healing of existing sores.

 

Who Can Benefit from Cold Sore Cream

 

This medication suits adults and children over 12 years who experience recurrent cold sore outbreaks. You may find it particularly helpful if you recognise the early warning signs of an outbreak, such as tingling or burning sensations.

The cream is suitable for people who need targeted treatment for:

  • Initial cold sore episodes
  • Recurrent herpes simplex outbreaks
  • Reducing healing time of existing lesions
  • Managing pain and discomfort during outbreaks

 

Why Choose This Topical Treatment

 

This aciclovir cream offers direct application to affected areas, allowing the medication to work precisely where you need it most. The topical formulation means you avoid systemic side effects that can occur with oral antiviral medications.

The 2g tube size provides convenient portability whilst containing sufficient medication for complete treatment courses. You can explore our full range of skin care products for additional support during recovery.

 

Clinical Suitability and Storage Requirements

 

Store the cream at room temperature below 25°C and keep the tube tightly closed when not in use. The medication remains stable for the duration stated on the packaging when stored correctly.

You should not use this cream if you're allergic to aciclovir or any other ingredients in the formulation. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before use.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

 

Application Instructions for Cold Sore Treatment

Wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the cream. Clean the affected area gently with water and pat dry. Apply a thin layer of cream to the cold sore and surrounding skin, covering the entire affected area. Use the cream five times daily at approximately four-hour intervals during waking hours.

Continue treatment for five days, or until the lesion has healed completely if this occurs sooner. Start treatment as early as possible when you first notice symptoms such as tingling, burning, or itching sensations.

Dosage Guidelines and Treatment Duration

Apply the cream to clean, dry skin using a clean finger or cotton bud to avoid spreading the infection. Do not rub the cream in vigorously as this may irritate the sensitive skin around cold sores. The standard treatment course lasts five days, though you may notice improvement within two to three days of starting treatment.

If your symptoms persist beyond ten days or worsen during treatment, consult your pharmacist or doctor for further advice. Avoid touching the cold sore unnecessarily and wash your hands immediately after application to prevent spreading the virus to other areas or people.

Understanding Potential Side Effects

Like all medicines, Aciclovir 5% Cream can have side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Most people tolerate this topical treatment well, with side effects typically being mild and temporary when they do occur.

The most commonly reported side effects involve local skin reactions at the application site. These usually resolve on their own as your skin adjusts to the medication. You can find additional creams and ointments to support your skin care routine during treatment.

Known side effects may include:

  • Mild burning or stinging sensation at application site
  • Skin dryness or flaking
  • Temporary redness or irritation
  • Itching around the treated area
  • Skin sensitivity or tenderness
  • Mild swelling at application site
  • Contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals
  • Temporary skin discolouration

If you experience these or any other side effects, speak to your doctor or pharmacist right away. For more information about reporting side effects please see the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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