Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Acyclovir (Zovirax) and docosanol (Abreva) are both antiviral medications used to treat cold sores, but they have some key differences. Acyclovir (Zovirax) is available in various forms, including oral pills, buccal tablets, and topical creams or ointments, and it requires a prescription. It treats a range of herpes virus infections, including genital herpes, shingles, and chickenpox. In contrast, docosanol (Abreva) is an over-the-counter cream specifically for cold sores on the face or lips. Acyclovir works by stopping the virus from making copies of itself, while docosanol prevents the virus from entering healthy cells. Acyclovir needs to be taken or applied multiple times a day, depending on the form, whereas docosanol is applied five times a day. Acyclovir can cause side effects like nausea and diarrhea, while docosanol's side effects are usually mild, such as stinging at the application site.
Acyclovir (Zovirax) is an antiviral medication used for the treatment of shingles, chickenpox, and herpes simplex virus infections (e.g., cold sores, genital herpes). It comes in many different forms, including oral pills that are usually taken 4 to 5 times a day, as well as topical cream or ointment that are typically applied 5 to 6 times a day. Some of the most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (for oral forms), and skin irritation (for topical forms). Acyclovir (Zovirax) is prescription only and not available over the counter.
Docosanol (Abreva) is a cream that's applied to the face or lips to help treat cold sores (also known as fever blisters). It works best if you follow the directions and apply it 5 times a day as soon as your cold sore symptoms start. It's available over the counter (OTC) as a brand-name or lower-cost generic medication. Most people don't experience much side effects from docosanol (Abreva), but it might cause some mild stinging.
Oral capsule, tablet, and suspension:
Ointment:
Cream
Oral capsules, tablets, and suspension
Buccal tablet (Sitavig)
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