Skip to main content

Compare
Zovirax vs. Denavir

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Acyclovir (Zovirax) and penciclovir (Denavir) are both antiviral medications used to treat herpes virus infections, but they have some key differences. Acyclovir is available in multiple forms, including oral, buccal, and topical, while penciclovir is only available as a topical cream. Acyclovir can treat a variety of herpes infections, such as shingles, chickenpox, and genital herpes, whereas penciclovir is specifically for cold sores. Acyclovir needs to be applied or taken multiple times a day, depending on the form, while Penciclovir must be applied every 2 hours while awake. Both medications are prescription-only and not available over the counter.

Acyclovir

(Zovirax)

Get free coupons

Penciclovir

(Denavir)

Get free coupons

Summary for Zovirax

Prescription only

Acyclovir (Zovirax) is an antiviral topical medication used to treat certain infections caused by the herpes virus, including cold sores on the lips and face, as well as genital herpes. It's FDA approved as a cream for people 12 years and older and as an ointment for adults. You typically apply it 5 to 6 times daily to the affected area. Common side effects include mild skin irritation, burning, or itching at the application site.

Indications for Zovirax

Pros and Cons for Zovirax

Pros

  • Not many interactions with other medications
  • Applied directly to the affected area
  • Typically only used for 4 to 7 days

Cons

  • Must be applied multiple times daily
  • Can cause burning and stinging at the application site
  • Ointment not FDA approved for children

Common Side Effects for Zovirax

Ointment:

  • Burning and stinging at application site (30%)

Cream:

  • Application site reaction (5%)

Warnings for Zovirax

  • For use on the skin only
  • Skin irritation

Summary for Denavir

Prescription only

Penciclovir (Denavir) 1% cream is a prescription medication that's used to treat cold sores (also known as oral herpes) in people ages 12 years and older. Penciclovir (Denavir) is applied on the lips and around the mouth every 2 hours while you're awake, typically for 4 days. This medication works best if you start it as soon as you feel cold sore symptoms. Most people don't experience many side effects from penciclovir (Denavir), but some have reported mild skin irritation after application. Penciclovir (Denavir) is available as a brand-name and generic medication.

Indications for Denavir

  • Cold sores in people ages 12 years and older who have repeated outbreaks

Pros and Cons for Denavir

Pros

  • Most people don't experience any side effects
  • Possible option during pregnancy, if directed by HCP
  • No significant interactions with other medications or supplements

Cons

  • Need to apply the medication every 2 hours
  • Only shortens healing time by half a day compared to placebo
  • Might not work as well if you wait too long to start treatment

Common Side Effects for Denavir

  • Application site reaction (e.g., skin irritation)

Warnings for Denavir

  • Use only on your skin
  • Bacterial infection

Prices with our coupons for Zovirax vs. Denavir

Price Card Drug Icon
Acyclovir30 tablets / 400mg
$12.31$35.66
Get free coupons
More Information
Price Card Drug Icon
Penciclovir1 tube / 5g of 1%
$150.79$779.40
Get free coupons
More Information

Compare other Cold Sores drugs

Zovirax vs. AbrevaZovirax vs. DenavirZovirax vs. FamvirZovirax vs. ValtrexAbreva vs. Valtrex

Browse medications by letter

Show All

Browse prescription and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.