Abreva

About Abreva

Abreva is one of the best selling creams for treating colds sores formed on the face or the lips. The Abreva's medicine, docosanol 10% is an active ingredient that is clinically proven to lessen the severity of symptoms and shorten the healing time of cold sores. Abreva is an over-the-counter product, but patients are recommended to speak with their doctors to determine if Abreva is the right option for treatment.

Abreva should be applied on the affected area a couple of times a day, until it is completely cured.  It is recommended to apply Abreva as soon as the first symptoms of an outbreak appear.

About Docosanol Topical

Docosanol is an antiviral medication that can speed up the healing process of the cold sores which are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Docosanol is a FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved  pharmaceutical that prevents the virus from entering the healthy skin, and limits its growing.

 The medication is not appropriate for treating canker sores (sores in the mouth), genital herpes, or shingles. It does not prevent future occurrence, as well as passing the infection to another person.

How to Apply Abreva

Abreva should be used as soon as the first symptoms of a cold sore occur - burning, tingling, redness, itch or a little bump. Hands should be washed and dried very well, before the cream application. Clean the sore area (remove any cosmetics), and after drying, apply a thin layer of the cream, and rub it gently. Repeat the procedure for about 5 times per day, usually in 4 hours. Abreva is applied only on the skin. If it gets in your eyes, simply wash with plenty of water. After the cream application, you may apply cosmetics on the sore area. Abreva is working well when you apply a fixed amount of the medication on the skin, during evenly spaced intervals. If you remove the medication by accident, make sure you reapply it right away. You should stop using Abreva, if the cold sore worsens, and is not fully healed in 10 days. You should see your doctor in such a case. Do not share your Abreva with other people, as the virus is contagious and this may spread the infection. Until the sores are completely cured, you should avoid any physical contacts, especially kissing. You can store Abreva at room temperature, and do not expose it to heat, moisture, or cold.

Who should not use Abreva

Abreva is not intended to be used by children under the age of 12.  If pregnant, do not use Abreva without first consulting with your doctor.

Possible Side Effects of Abreva

In most cases Abreva do not cause any negative side effects. Serious allergic reactions are very rare, but if they occur it can include difficulty breathing, excessive itching, hives, lips, tongue or face swelling. You should seek medical attention immediately.

Some patients have reported that their skin became abnormally dry and red after applying Abreva. Other reports include minor headaches after continuous use. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should contact your doctor promptly, to prevent further complications.