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Cold Sore Fever Blister Treatment

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Active ingredient
Docosanol 100 mg/1 g
Other brand names
Dosage form
Cream
Route
Topical
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2021
Label revision date
December 1, 2022
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Active ingredient
Docosanol 100 mg/1 g
Other brand names
Dosage form
Cream
Route
Topical
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2021
Label revision date
December 1, 2022
Manufacturer
FSA Store Inc. (Caring Mills)
Registration number
ANDA208754
NDC root
81522-923
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Packaging Info
Packaging & NDC Codes

If you are a healthcare professional or from the pharmaceutical industry please visit this version.

If you are a consumer or patient please visit this version.

Drug Overview

Docosanol Cream 10% is a non-prescription medication designed to treat cold sores and fever blisters on the face or lips. It works by shortening the healing time and alleviating symptoms such as tingling, pain, burning, and itching associated with these outbreaks.

This topical cream is similar to the active ingredient found in Abreva® and is intended for external use only. If you're looking for relief from cold sore symptoms, Docosanol Cream may be a helpful option for you.

Uses

If you’re dealing with cold sores or fever blisters on your face or lips, this medication can help. It works to shorten both the healing time and the duration of uncomfortable symptoms like tingling, pain, burning, and itching.

You can find this medicine available without a prescription, making it a convenient option to help you feel better faster.

Dosage and Administration

Before you start using the cream, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly. When you notice the first signs of a cold sore or fever blister, such as a tingling sensation, apply the cream directly to the affected area on your face or lips. It's important to begin treatment as early as possible for the best results. Gently rub the cream in until it is completely absorbed.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, you should apply the cream five times a day until the cold sore is healed. If you are considering using this cream for a child under 12, it's best to consult a doctor first for guidance. Remember to wash your hands again after applying the cream to avoid spreading the virus.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this product if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. It's also important not to use it in or near your eyes, and you should refrain from applying it directly inside your mouth. Additionally, please do not share this product with anyone, as doing so could spread an infection. Always prioritize your safety and well-being when using any medication.

Side Effects

You should be aware that this product can cause a severe allergic reaction in some individuals. Symptoms of such a reaction may include hives, facial swelling, wheezing or difficulty breathing, shock, and rash. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to stop using the product and seek medical attention immediately.

Additionally, if your cold sore worsens or does not heal within 10 days, you should stop using the product and consult your doctor for further advice.

Warnings and Precautions

This product is for external use only and may cause a severe allergic reaction in some individuals. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include hives, facial swelling, wheezing or difficulty breathing, shock, and rash. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the product immediately and seek medical help.

Before using this product, ensure you are not allergic to any of its ingredients. If your cold sore worsens or does not heal within 10 days, stop using the product and consult your doctor. Additionally, if the product is swallowed, seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it's important to stay calm and take immediate action. While the specific signs of an overdose are not detailed, common symptoms can include extreme drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these signs, or if you are unsure, seek medical help right away.

In case of an overdose, contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest hospital. It's crucial to provide them with as much information as possible about the substance taken and the amount, if known. Remember, acting quickly can make a significant difference in your health and safety.

Pregnancy Use

There are no specific guidelines or warnings about using docosanol cream during pregnancy. The information available does not indicate any risks or contraindications for pregnant individuals, nor does it suggest any changes to the dosage for those who are pregnant. As always, it's a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before using any medication during pregnancy to ensure it’s safe for you and your baby.

Lactation Use

If you are breastfeeding, you can use Docosanol Cream without specific warnings or recommendations against it. The information available does not indicate any concerns about the cream being passed into breast milk or any risks to your infant while using it. Always feel free to consult with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about using this product while nursing.

Pediatric Use

If your child is under 12 years old, it's important to consult a doctor before using this cream. For those aged 12 and older, you should wash your hands before and after applying the cream. Apply it to the affected area on the face or lips as soon as you notice the first signs of a cold sore or fever blister, such as a tingling sensation. Early treatment is key for the best results. Make sure to rub it in gently and completely, using it five times a day until the area is healed.

Always keep this cream out of reach of children. If the cream is swallowed, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using this medication in older adults, there is no specific information available about dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. This means that if you or a loved one is an older adult considering this medication, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the best approach based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that there are no specific guidelines or dosage adjustments mentioned for your condition in the available information. This means that the usual recommendations for monitoring or safety considerations related to renal impairment (kidney issues) are not provided.

It's always best to consult with your healthcare provider about your individual situation, as they can offer personalized advice and ensure that any medications you take are safe and effective for you.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or precautions for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication should be used if you have hepatic impairment (liver issues).

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medication you take is safe and appropriate for your liver health. They can help determine the best course of action based on your individual situation.

Drug Interactions

It's important to have open conversations with your healthcare provider about any medications or tests you may be taking. In this case, there are no known drug interactions or laboratory test interactions associated with the medication. However, your healthcare provider can help ensure that your overall treatment plan is safe and effective, taking into account all the medications and tests you may be using. Always feel free to ask questions and share your complete health history to get the best care possible.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it at a temperature between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). It's important to keep it away from freezing temperatures, as freezing can damage the product.

When handling the product, make sure to do so in a clean environment to maintain its integrity. Always follow any specific instructions provided for use to ensure safety and effectiveness. If you have any questions about disposal or further handling, please refer to the guidelines provided with your product.

Additional Information

You should apply this topical medication to the affected area on your face or lips at the first sign of a cold sore or fever blister, such as a tingling sensation. Use it five times a day until the sore is healed.

Be aware that this product may cause a severe allergic reaction, with symptoms like hives, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately. Remember, this medication is for external use only, and you should not share it with others to prevent spreading the infection. If your cold sore worsens or does not heal within 10 days, consult your doctor. Keep this product out of reach of children, and if swallowed, contact a Poison Control Center or seek medical assistance right away.

FAQ

What is Docosanol Cream used for?

Docosanol Cream is used to treat cold sores and fever blisters on the face or lips.

How does Docosanol Cream work?

It shortens the healing time and duration of symptoms such as tingling, pain, burning, and itching.

How should I apply Docosanol Cream?

Wash your hands before and after applying the cream to the affected area at the first sign of a cold sore. Rub it in gently and use it 5 times a day until healed.

Can children use Docosanol Cream?

Children under 12 years should ask a doctor before use. Adults and children 12 years or over can use it as directed.

What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction?

If you experience symptoms like hives, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing, stop using the cream and seek medical help immediately.

What precautions should I take when using Docosanol Cream?

Do not use it in or near the eyes, avoid applying it directly inside your mouth, and do not share it with others to prevent spreading the infection.

What should I do if my cold sore does not heal?

Stop using the cream and ask a doctor if your cold sore gets worse or is not healed within 10 days.

Is Docosanol Cream safe to use during pregnancy or while nursing?

The insert does not provide specific information regarding the use of Docosanol Cream during pregnancy or lactation. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.

How should I store Docosanol Cream?

Store the cream at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) and do not freeze.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Cold Sore Fever Blister Treatment (docosanol). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Cold Sore Fever Blister Treatment.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Cold Sore Fever Blister Treatment, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

Docosanol Cream 10% is a topical formulation indicated for the treatment of cold sores and fever blisters. This non-prescription medication is designed to shorten the healing time associated with these conditions. The product is available in a net weight of 2 grams (0.07 ounces) and is intended for external use only.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the treatment of cold sores and fever blisters on the face or lips. It is designed to shorten the healing time and reduce the duration of associated symptoms, including tingling, pain, burning, and itching.

As a non-prescription medicine, it provides an accessible option for patients seeking relief from the discomfort of cold sores.

Dosage and Administration

Healthcare professionals are advised to instruct patients to wash their hands thoroughly before and after applying the cream. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the cream should be applied to the affected area on the face or lips at the first sign of a cold sore or fever blister, typically indicated by a tingling sensation. Early treatment is crucial for achieving optimal results.

The cream should be gently but completely rubbed into the affected area. It is recommended to apply the cream five times a day until the lesion is healed.

For children under 12 years of age, it is essential to consult a physician before use.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

Patients with a known allergy to any ingredient in this product should not use it due to the risk of allergic reactions. Additionally, the product should not be applied in or near the eyes, nor should it be applied directly inside the mouth. Sharing this product is also contraindicated, as it may facilitate the spread of infection.

Warnings and Precautions

This product carries a significant risk of severe allergic reactions. Healthcare professionals should be vigilant for symptoms such as hives, facial swelling, wheezing or difficulty breathing, shock, and rash. In the event of an allergic reaction, it is imperative to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

For external use only, this product should not be applied if the patient has a known allergy to any of its ingredients. It is essential to assess the patient's allergy history prior to administration.

Patients should be advised to stop using the product and consult a healthcare provider if their cold sore worsens or fails to heal within 10 days. This precaution is critical to ensure appropriate management and to rule out any underlying complications.

In cases of accidental ingestion, immediate medical attention is required. Patients or caregivers should contact a Poison Control Center or seek emergency medical help without delay. Monitoring for these potential adverse events is crucial for patient safety.

Side Effects

Patients may experience a range of adverse reactions associated with this product. Notably, there is a potential for severe allergic reactions, which may manifest as hives, facial swelling, wheezing or difficulty breathing, shock, and rash.

In clinical practice, it is advised that patients discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if their cold sore worsens or fails to heal within 10 days. This recommendation is crucial to ensure appropriate management and to mitigate any potential complications arising from prolonged use.

Drug Interactions

No drug interactions or drug and laboratory test interactions have been identified in the available data. Therefore, no specific recommendations for dosage adjustments or monitoring are necessary at this time.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Cold Sore Fever Blister Treatment (docosanol). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Cold Sore Fever Blister Treatment.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should consult a healthcare professional before use. For adolescents aged 12 years and older, it is recommended to wash hands before and after applying the cream. The cream should be applied to the affected area on the face or lips at the first sign of a cold sore or fever blister (tingle) to ensure optimal results. Application should be done gently but completely, five times a day until the lesion is healed.

It is important to keep the product out of reach of children. In the event of accidental ingestion, immediate medical assistance should be sought or contact with a Poison Control Center is advised.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information available regarding the use of this medication in geriatric patients, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to elderly patients, as individual responses may vary. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in efficacy.

Pregnancy

There are no specific statements regarding the use of docosanol cream during pregnancy. The available prescribing information does not mention any contraindications or risks associated with the use of this product in pregnant individuals. Additionally, no dosage modifications for pregnant patients are provided. The insert also does not include any special precautions regarding the use of this product during pregnancy. As such, healthcare professionals should consider the absence of data when advising pregnant patients on the use of docosanol cream.

Lactation

There are no specific warnings or recommendations regarding the use of Docosanol Cream in lactating mothers. Additionally, there is no information available about the potential for excretion of Docosanol in breast milk or any associated risks to breastfed infants.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have no specific information regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations provided in the text. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution and consider individual patient factors when prescribing to this population. Regular assessment of renal function may be warranted to ensure safe and effective use of the medication in patients with reduced kidney function.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to the use of this medication. Consequently, there are no established dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions outlined for individuals with compromised liver function. It is recommended that healthcare providers exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with hepatic impairment, given the lack of data on its safety and efficacy in this population. Regular monitoring of liver function may be prudent in these cases, although specific parameters are not defined in the available information.

Overdosage

In the absence of specific information regarding overdosage, healthcare professionals are advised to exercise caution and adhere to general principles of management in cases of suspected overdose.

It is essential to monitor the patient closely for any potential symptoms that may arise from excessive dosing. Symptoms of overdosage can vary widely depending on the substance involved and the individual patient's response.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical attention should be sought. Healthcare providers should implement supportive care measures, which may include monitoring vital signs, providing symptomatic treatment, and ensuring the patient's safety.

If available, consultation with a poison control center or a medical toxicologist is recommended to guide further management and intervention strategies.

Documentation of the incident, including the amount ingested and the time of exposure, is crucial for effective treatment and follow-up care.

Nonclinical Toxicology

No teratogenic or non-teratogenic effects have been reported in the available nonclinical studies. Additionally, there is no information regarding animal pharmacology and toxicology. The absence of data limits the assessment of potential risks associated with the use of the compound in question. Further studies may be necessary to fully evaluate the nonclinical toxicology profile.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are available in the insert text.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center if the product is swallowed. It is essential to inform patients not to use the product if they have a known allergy to any of its ingredients.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and consult a doctor if their cold sore worsens or does not heal within 10 days. When using the product, patients must apply it only to the affected areas and should be cautioned against using it in or near the eyes. Additionally, they should avoid applying the product directly inside the mouth.

Healthcare providers should emphasize the importance of not sharing this product with others, as doing so may facilitate the spread of the infection.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It should be stored at a temperature range of 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). Care must be taken to ensure that the product does not freeze, as this may compromise its integrity and effectiveness. Proper storage conditions are essential to maintain the quality of the product throughout its shelf life.

Additional Clinical Information

The product is administered topically, applied to the affected area on the face or lips at the first sign of a cold sore or fever blister (tingle). Patients should use the product five times a day until healing occurs.

Clinicians should counsel patients on potential allergic reactions, which may include symptoms such as hives, facial swelling, wheezing, shock, or rash. Patients are advised to discontinue use and seek medical assistance immediately if an allergic reaction occurs. The product is for external use only and should not be shared to prevent the spread of infection. Patients should also be instructed to stop use and consult a doctor if the cold sore worsens or does not heal within 10 days. Additionally, the product should be kept out of reach of children, and if ingested, medical help or contact with a Poison Control Center should be sought immediately.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Cold Sore Fever Blister Treatment, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Cold Sore Fever Blister Treatment, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

Learn more in our Editorial Policy

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Primary FDA sources:

Orange Book data shown on this page are limited to Regulatory Status (Rx), Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC), and Mechanism of Action (MoA).

Regulatory data notice: Information on this page is reproduced verbatim from FDA public databases (NSDE, Orange Book, Purple Book, DailyMed SPL). NDA/ANDA drugs are FDA-approved, BLA biologics are FDA-licensed. Inclusion alone does not guarantee current market availability or imply FDA endorsement.

Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.