How often should acyclovir be applied?

How often should acyclovir be applied

Acyclovir cream is typically applied five times daily for four days when treating cold sores.

What happens if you miss an application

Apply the cream as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for the next scheduled application, then resume your regular schedule. Do not apply extra cream to make up for a missed dose.

How does this compare to oral acyclovir dosing

Oral acyclovir for cold sores takes a tablet five times daily for five days. The tableted form covers internal outbreaks such as genital herpes, where doses run five times daily for five to ten days.

When does the treatment window close

Start applying cream within one hour of the ersten signs of a cold sore. Effectiveness drops significantly if treatment begins later in the outbreak cycle.

Can you use acyclovir ointment more than five times daily

No clinical data supports increasing frequency beyond five times daily. Extra applications do not speed healing and may raise irritation risk.

Who manufactures generic acyclovir cream

Multiple companies produce generic versions, including Teva, Mylan, and Sandoz. Brand versions such as Zovirax remain available.

Does patent protection affect availability

Acyclovir cream patents expired years ago, allowing widespread generic entry.