PO (Adults and Children ≥12 yr): Apply every 2 hr for 4 days while awake.
Availability⬆⬇
(Generic available)
Cream: 1%
Assessment⬆⬇
Assess lesions prior to and daily during therapy.
Implementation⬆⬇
Begin treatment as early as possible during prodrome or when lesions appear.
Apply to lesions every 2 hr for 4 days while awake.
Apply to lips and face only; avoid application to mucous membranes or near the eyes.
Patient/Family Teaching⬆⬇
Advise patient to apply medication exactly as directed for the full course of therapy. If a dose is missed, apply as soon as possible but not just before next dose is due; do not double doses. Penciclovir should not be used more frequently or longer than prescribed.
Advise patients that the additional use of OTC creams, lotions, and ointments may delay healing and may cause spreading of lesions.
Evaluation/Desired Outcomes⬆⬇
More rapid healing of lesions and relief of pain in herpes labialis.
