Penciclovir
Penciclovir (Denavir)
Penciclovir
(pen- SIGH-kloh-veer)
Pregnancy Category: B Denavir (Rx)

Classification: Antiviral drug

See Also: See also Antiviral Drugs.

Action/Kinetics: Active against herpes simplex viruses (HSVs), including HSV-1 and HSV-2. In infected cells, viral thymidine kinase phosphorylates penciclovir to a monophosphate form which then is converted to penciclovir triphosphate by cellular kinases. Penciclovir triphosphate inhibits HSV polymerase competitively with deoxyguanosine triphosphate which inhibits herpes viral DNA synthesis and replication. Not absorbed through the skin.

Uses: Treatment of recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores) in adults.

Contraindications: Lactation. Application of the drug to mucous membranes.

Special Concerns: Use with caution if applied around the eyes due to the possibility of irritation. The effect of the drug in immunocompromised clients has not been determined. Safety and efficacy have not been determined in children.

Side Effects: Dermatologic: Reaction at the site of application, hypesthesia, local anesthesia, erythematous rash, mild erythema. Miscellaneous: Headache, taste perversion.

How Supplied: Cream: 10 mg/g.

Dosage
?Cream (10 mg/g) Cold sores.
Apply q 2 hr while awake for 4 days.