Abreva: Uses, indications and precautions when using

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Abreva topical is used to treat sores and blisters on the lips caused by the herpes simplex virus. Patients should not use Abreva topical with other medications to prevent the virus from spreading to other areas of the skin.

1. What disease does Abreva treat?

Abreva contains the active ingredient Docosanol, which is prepared topically for the treatment of herpes simplex virus infections. The drug's mechanism of action is to prevent the virus from growing and entering healthy skin cells. Abreva topical helps sores and herpes heal quickly, while reducing symptoms such as tingling, pain, burning, ... However, the drug does not help prevent herpes simplex virus infection from sick to healthy people. and does not prevent future re-infection. Do not use abreva topical to treat common mouth sores (not caused by herpes simplex), shingles, or genital herpes.
Abreva is used as follows:
Apply the medicine at the first signs of herpes such as itching, redness, burning on the lips,... Wash and dry your hands before applying the medicine. Gently apply a thin layer of the medicine, completely covering the blistered skin or itchy, swollen, red areas. The medication is usually applied every three to four hours or as directed by your doctor. Wash your hands with soap after applying the medicine. Pay attention to remove the cosmetic layer (if any) from the skin area where the medicine will be applied. Cosmetics can be applied after applying the medicine, but use a separate applicator (such as a cotton swab) to prevent the virus from spreading to the healthy skin. Abreva is for external use only, not in or near the eyes. Do not apply the medicine inside the nose or mouth. The dose of the drug is prescribed by the doctor depending on the extent of the virus infection and response to treatment. Patients should not take the medicine more often or for longer than directed. The person on the other side needs to take the medicine regularly for the drug to work at its best. The drug should be administered at evenly spaced intervals so that the amount absorbed by the skin remains constant. To make it easier to remember, the patient should take the medicine at the same time of day.

Since Abreva does not prevent the spread of cold sores on the lips caused by the herpes simplex virus, to avoid the spread of herpes, close physical contact with an infected person should be avoided during an outbreak until after the outbreak. The ulcer heals completely.
Stop taking the medicine and tell your doctor if you have used it for more than 10 days and the blisters do not improve or get worse.

2. Side effects of the drug Abreva

When using Abreva, the area where the medicine is applied may become red or swollen. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these symptoms persist or are severe.
Allergic reactions to Abreva are very rare, but the consequences are very serious, so the patient needs to be very vigilant. Get medical attention immediately if you have severe allergic symptoms such as itching, rash, dizziness, swelling of the face, swelling of the tongue, swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing,...
Due to the individual's response to Medicines are different so there may be side effects not listed above. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you experience strange symptoms while taking this medicine.

3. Precautions when using drugs

Before using Abreva topical, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to Docosanol or have any other allergies to medications or foods. During pregnancy, the drug is used only when absolutely necessary and prescribed by a doctor.
Current studies have not confirmed whether the drug passes into breast milk. Therefore, consult your doctor about the use of Abreva before breast-feeding.

4. Drug interactions

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, your doctor will check for interactions between the drugs you are taking and Abreva to prevent possible interactions before prescribing. Do not use, stop or change the dosage of any medication without telling your doctor or pharmacist.

5. Other notes when using Abreva

5.1. Treatment of drug overdose

Abreva topical may be harmful if swallowed. Take the person to the nearest medical facility for emergency care if they have severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or fainting.

5.2. What to do if you forget to apply a dose of Abreva?

If your friend misses a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Do not use a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

5.3. How to store Abreva

Store the medicine at room temperature from 20-25 degrees Celsius. Pay attention not to freeze the medicine. Keep Abreva out of the reach of children and pets.
Abreva topical is used to treat sores and blisters on the lips caused by the herpes simplex virus. Accordingly, patients should be careful not to share Abreva with other drugs because it can spread infection. Herpes simplex virus outbreaks can be caused by many factors such as stress; tired; strong sunlight; the weather turns cold; trauma, oral surgery (such as dental procedures); colds, flu,... Protect your body against the factors mentioned above to prevent recurrence of the disease.
With flu prevention, getting a flu vaccine every year is important to protect your health and avoid increasing your risk of illness. Currently, Vinmec International General Hospital has a flu vaccination service. All flu vaccines at Vinmec are officially imported, have clear origins and are refrigerated in a GSP-compliant environment, so the best vaccine quality is maintained. If customers need to be vaccinated against influenza, they can come to Vinmec for examination and service.

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Reference source: webmd.com