PO (Adults and Children ≥12 yr): Apply every 2 hr for 4 days while awake.
US Brand Names⬆⬇
Denavir
Action⬆⬇
Inhibits viral DNA synthesis and replication.
Therapeutic effects:
Death of herpes virus.
Decreased lesion duration and pain.
Active against herpes viruses.
Classifications⬆⬇
Therapeutic Classification: antivirals (topical)
Pharmacokinetics⬆⬇
Absorption: Not absorbed following topical use.
Distribution: Unknown.
Metabolism/Excretion: Converted intracellularly to active triphosphate form; excreted in urine.
Half-Life: 2–2.5 hr.
Time/Action Profile⬆⬇
ROUTE
ONSET
PEAK
DURATION
Topical
unknown
unknown
unknown
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.
