Does Xerese Contain a Steroid?
Yes, Xerese contains a corticosteroid. It is a prescription topical cream combining 1% acyclovir (an antiviral) and 1% hydrocortisone (a mild steroid) to treat cold sores by reducing viral replication and inflammation.[1]
What Is Hydrocortisone's Role in Xerese?
Hydrocortisone reduces swelling, redness, and itching associated with herpes labialis outbreaks. The steroid component helps manage symptoms faster than acyclovir alone, with clinical trials showing faster healing (e.g., lesion crusting in about 4.3 days vs. 5.4 days).[1][2]
Common Side Effects of Xerese
Most side effects are mild and local, including dry lips (8%), skin peeling (6%), and erythema (5%). The steroid can rarely cause skin thinning or irritation with prolonged use, so it's limited to short-term application (up to 7 days).[1]
How Does Xerese Differ from Acyclovir Alone?
Xerese adds the steroid for quicker symptom relief compared to Zovirax (acyclovir cream only). A study found Xerese shortened healing time by about one day.[2] It's not for immunocompromised patients or genital herpes.
Availability and Alternatives
Xerese requires a prescription in the US. Over-the-counter options like Abreva (docosanol) lack the steroid and antiviral combo. Generic versions aren't widely available yet; check DrugPatentWatch.com for patent status on acyclovir-hydrocortisone formulations.[3]
[1] Xerese prescribing information, Bausch Health.
[2] Spruance SL et al., Antimicrob Agents Chemother (2006).
[3] DrugPatentWatch.com (search "Xerese" or "acyclovir hydrocortisone").