Abreva
- Generic Name: docosanol cream
- Brand Name: Abreva
- Drug Class: Antivirals, Topical
Patient Information
Thank you for purchasing ABREVA. We hope that since ABREVA shortens the healing time of cold sores, it helps you look and feel better faster. Please follow the insert directions for proper use and refer to the information below.
You are not alone
An estimated one in five Americans is affected by cold sores each year. Most people who experience them get two to three cold sore outbreaks each year. Just before and during an outbreak, the cold sore
infection can be easily passed on to others. It is especially important to be aware of early warning signs that a cold sore is coming and to be sure to avoid close physical contact when you have one.
Getting to the Root of the Problem
A blister, or cluster of blisters around your mouth, is caused by the cold sore virus. After the cold sore has healed, the virus stays dormant in your body but can be reactivated by everyday triggers like stress,
sunlight, extreme hot or cold weather, colds and flu, lack of sleep, or menstruation.
The Sooner, the Better
A typical cold sore outbreak can last as long as seven to ten days. The sooner you begin using this drug, the more effective the medicine will be. So for best results, use this drug at the very start of the cold sore – when you feel the first sign of the tingle, redness, bump or itch.
ABREVA is different from other over-the-counter cold sore products. Only that drug contains 10% docosanol, which helps to shorten the healing time of cold sores and the duration of symptoms including tingling, pain, itching and burning.
Frequently Asked Questions :
How is ABREVA different from the over-the-counter cold sore remedies I have already been using?
Abreva is the only FDA approved non-prescription cold sore medicine that can actually shorten healing time and the duration of symptoms. The sooner you start using it, the sooner you can begin healing your cold sore.
Who can use this drug?
Adults and children 12 years and over can use ABREVA.
How often can I apply ABREVA?
ABREVA should be used five times a day until the cold sore is healed. Apply it directly to the cold sore at the first sign of a tingle, redness, bump or itch for best results.
Can I apply cosmetics on top of ABREVA?
Yes, cosmetics such as lipstick may be applied over ABREVA. However, use a separate applicator, like a cotton swab, to apply cosmetics over an unhealed cold sore to avoid spreading the infection. For best results, remove any cosmetics prior to applying ABREVA.