Pregnancy Risk Category C
How supplied
Ointment: 5%
Action
Inhibits herpes simplex and varicella-zoster viral DNA synthesis by inhibiting viral DNA polymerase action.
Indications & dosage
Initial herpes genitalis; limited, non-life-threatening mucocutaneous herpes simplex virus infections in immunocompromised patients--
Adults: cover all lesions q 3 hours six times daily for 7 days. Although dose varies depending on total lesion area, use about 1/4-inch (1.3-cm) ribbon of ointment on each 4-inch (10-cm) square of surface area.
Adverse reactions
Skin: transient burning and stinging, rash, pruritus, vulvitis; edema, pain at application site.
Interactions
None significant.
Effects on diagnostic tests
None reported.
Contraindications
Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity or chemical intolerance to drug.
Nursing considerations
Patient teaching
*Liquid contains alcohol. **May contain tartrazine. †Canada ‡Australia §U.K. OTCOver the counter
Reactions may be common, uncommon, life-threatening, or COMMON AND LIFE-THREATENING