DENAVIR
General description

Denavir is the brand name for the drug penciclovir produced by Smithkline Beecham COnsumer Healthcare. It is an antiviral agent against herpes virueses. It is availableas a white cream for topical administration only.

Mechanism

Penciclovir acts to inhibit herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and 2 (HSV-2). It is phosphorylated in the body to an active triphosphate form. Thie form then competitively inhibits HSV polymerase, selectively inhibiting herpes viral DNA synthesis and replication.

Indications

Denavir is indicated for treatment of recurrent herpes labilais, or cold sores, in adults.

Usage/Dosage

It is reccomended to apply Denavir every 2 hours during waking hours for a period of 4 days. Treatment should begin as early as possible, with the appearance of the prodrome or inital lesions.

Precautions

Denavir should only be used to treat herpes labialis on the face or lips. Care should be taken to avoid contact with eyes or other mucous membranes. Its effects have not been established in immunocompromised patients.

Contraindications

Denavir is contraindicated for patients with known hypersensitivity to any of the drug components.

Potential Adverse Effects

No adverse effects are known to occur with significant frequency.