Docosanol (Topical)

Brand Names : Abreva

Category

• Antiviral, topical

Description

Docosanol (doe-KOE-san-ole) belongs to the family of medicines called antivirals. Antivirals are used to treat infections caused by viruses. Usually they work for only one kind or group of virus infections.

Topical docosanol is used to treat the symptoms of herpes simplex virus infections around the mouth. Although topical docosanol will not cure herpes simplex, it may help relieve the pain and discomfort and may help the sores (if any) heal faster.

Docosanol is available over the counter in the following dosage form:

Topical
• Cream (U.S.)

Brand Names

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S. -

• Abreva