Drug Reference

Docosanol

Antivirals

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OTC

Fact box

Therapeutic class
Antivirals
Habit forming
No
Availability
Over-the-counter (OTC)

Brand names

Abreva

Available as

100 MG/ML · Topical Cream

FDA label sections are from openFDA and may not reflect the most recent labeling — confirm against the current DailyMed label.

Uses
Uses treats cold sores/fever blisters on the face or lips shortens healing time and duration of symptoms: tingling, pain, burning, and/or itching
How to use / dosing
Directions adults and children 12 years or over: wash hands before and after applying cream apply to affected area on the face or lips at the first sign of cold sore/fever blister (tingle). early treatment ensures the best results rub in gently but completely use 5 times a day until healed children under 12 years: ask a doctor

Safety advice

Conservative summary derived from FDA labeling — defaults to “consult your doctor” unless the label is explicit. Not a substitute for your clinician’s advice.

PregnancyNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
BreastfeedingNo information
No specific information in the FDA label. Check LactMed →
AlcoholNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
DrivingNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
KidneyNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
LiverNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
Warnings & precautions
Warnings Allergy Alert: This product may cause a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms may include: hives facial swelling wheezing/difficulty shock rash If an allergic reaction occurs, stop use and seek medical help right away. For external use only
Current FDA labels (DailyMed)

2 marketed products on record (RxNorm)

Authoritative sources

Reference only — not clinical advice. Verify against current FDA labeling and consult a licensed provider. About half of pediatric drug use is off-label and is not reflected in FDA labels; absence of pediatric information does not mean a medicine is unused or unsafe in children.