Abreva

Generic name: Docosanol Topical
Drug class: Topical anti-infectives

Usage of Abreva

Abreva (for the skin) is used to treat cold sores on the face and lips.

Docosanol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Abreva side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; feeling light-headed; wheezing, difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before taking Abreva

You should not use Abreva if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor before using Abreva if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not use this medicine on a child younger than 12 years old without medical advice.

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How to use Abreva

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin. Rinse with water if this medicine gets in your eyes or mouth.

Apply this medicine at the first sign of a cold sore, such as tingling, redness, itching, or a blister.

Wash your hands before and after applying Abreva.

Remove any cosmetics before applying Abreva. Apply enough medicine to completely cover the cold sore. Rub in gently and completely.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve within 10 days, or if they get worse.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

What other drugs will affect Abreva

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Disclaimer

Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Drugslib.com is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. Drugslib.com information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the United States and therefore Drugslib.com does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Drugslib.com's drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend therapy. Drugslib.com's drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners.

The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. Drugslib.com does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Drugslib.com provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.