Denavir

1 What is Denavir?

Brand: Denavir

Generic: Penciclovir

Denavir is an antiviral used for the treatment of viral infections. This drug usually works against only on one kind or group of virus infections.

Herpes simplex virus infections around the mouth can be treated with the topical dosage form of this drug. 

This drug will not cure the infection but it will help relieve the pain and discomfort and may help the sores heal faster. This drug requires a prescription.

2 What to Know Before Using

Before using Denavir, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it. Inform your healthcare provider for any allergic reactions to these drugs or any other drugs, foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. 

Carefully read the label of non-prescription drugs for any possible allergic reaction or contraindications. Data comparing the utility of topical penciclovir in children with use in other age groups are still unavailable. It is unknown whether this drug works exactly the same way in younger adults. Data comparing the utility of penciclovir in the elderly with use in other age groups are still unavailable. 

This drug has not been found to cause different side effects or other problems than it does in younger adults. Indications of harm to the fetus have not been reported in animal studies but adequate studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus. Infant risk is still undetermined when using this drug during breastfeeding. 

Discuss with your healthcare professional about the potential risks and benefits of taking this drug while breastfeeding. Drugs should not be taken together to prevent any interactions but in necessary cases inquire your healthcare provider regarding the adjustments in dosage or any other necessary precautions to prevent any unwanted side effects.

Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription and nonprescription drugs. 

Intake of specific food or using alcohol or tobacco with this drug is associated with an increased risk of certain side effects. Your healthcare professional can give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco. Inform your healthcare provider for any other medical problems such as Immune system problems.

3 Proper Usage

To use Denavir properly, you must follow all instructions given by your doctor. This drug should only be applied on the lips or face.

It is recommended to use this drug as soon as possible after the symptoms of herpes infection begin to appear. This drug must not be applied in or near the eyes, or inside the mouth or nose or on other internal parts of the body. 

The dose of this drug will be variable for different patients. The directions on the label or the prescription by your healthcare professional should be followed. The dosage of this drug you take depends on the medical problem for which you are using this drug. 

Adults with herpes simplex infection are advised to apply to the affected area of the skin every two hours, while awake, for four days. Use and dose in children must be determined by your healthcare professional.

A missed dose should be taken as soon as possible. However, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule if it is almost time for your next dose. 

Store the drug in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing. Keep out of the reach of children. Dispose any outdated or expired drugs and ask your healthcare professional for the proper disposal of the drugs.

4 Precautions to Take

Before using Denavir, there are some precautions you must take. Regular visits should be made to your healthcare provider to track your progress and to monitor the effectiveness of the drug.

It is recommended to increase the frequency of urination by increasing fluid intake to help prevent kidney problems and maintain normal kidney function. Check with your healthcare professional for the proper amounts of fluids to take. 

This drug will potentiate the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants such as antihistamines or drugs for hay fever, other allergies, or colds, sedatives, tranquilizers, or sleeping drugs, prescription pain drugs or narcotics, barbiturates, drugs for seizures, tricyclic antidepressants, muscle relaxants, or anesthetics, including some dental anesthetics. 

Check with your healthcare professional before taking any of the above while you are taking this drug. Inform the healthcare professional in charge that you are taking this drug before having any kind of surgery. This drug can cause drowsiness or reduced alertness. Be careful in driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.

5 Potential Side Effects

As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Denavir. Side effects may vary for each individual and prompt medical attention should be given if they occur.

Seek advice from your healthcare professional immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms. Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. 

As your body adjusts to the drug, the side effects will slowly disappear. Ask your healthcare professional about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

If any of the following side effects persists or are inconvenient, or if you notice any other effects, or if you have any questions about them, consult with your health care professional. Report any side effects to the FDA hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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