Generic
Aciclovir 5% + Hydrocortisone 1% Topical
3 brands available in the market
At a glance
Aciclovir 5% + Hydrocortisone 1% Topical is a combination cream used for the early treatment of recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores). It reduces the likelihood of ulcerative cold sores and shortens lesion healing time.
Description
This combination cream contains Aciclovir (an antiviral agent) and Hydrocortisone (a corticosteroid). Aciclovir inhibits herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 & HSV-2) DNA replication, preventing viral growth. Hydrocortisone reduces inflammation and relieves local symptoms. This cream is for external use on the lips only; do not use in the eyes, inside the mouth, nose, or on the genitals.
Indications
Early treatment of recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores) in adults and children (6 years of age and older).
Therapeutic class
Hydrocortisone & Combined Preparations
Pharmacological class
Antiviral + Topical Corticosteroid
Pharmacology
Aciclovir is a synthetic purine nucleoside analogue with inhibitory activity against Herpes simplex viruses type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2). The inhibitory activity is highly selective due to its affinity for the HSV-encoded enzyme thymidine kinase (TK). This viral enzyme converts Aciclovir into Aciclovir monophosphate. The monophosphate is further converted into diphosphate by cellular guanylate kinase and into triphosphate by cellular enzymes. Aciclovir triphosphate stops herpes viral DNA replication through: 1) competitive inhibition of viral DNA polymerase, 2) incorporation into and termination of the growing viral DNA chain, and 3) inactivation of viral DNA polymerase. Hydrocortisone is the main glucocorticoid secreted by the adrenal cortex, used topically for its anti-inflammatory effects.
Mechanism of action
Aciclovir inhibits herpes virus DNA replication by competitively inhibiting viral DNA polymerase, incorporating into and terminating the growing DNA chain, and inactivating viral DNA polymerase. Hydrocortisone reduces inflammation and relieves local symptoms (redness, swelling, pain).
Dosage
Adults and children ≥6 years:
- Apply cream to the affected area 5 times daily (approximately every 4 hours) for 5 days.
- Initiate therapy as early as possible after the first signs and symptoms (e.g., tingling, itching, redness).
Administration
- For topical use only; do not use in the eyes, eyelids, inside the mouth, nose, or on the genitals.
- Wash hands before and after application.
- Apply a thin layer to the affected area and gently massage.
- Do not cover with bandages or plasters.
Missed dose
Initiate treatment at the first sign of symptoms; missed dose is not relevant. Set reminders for regular application.
Side effects
Common side effects (<1%):
- Skin drying or flaking
- Burning or tingling sensation
- Erythema (redness)
- Pigmentation changes
- Application site reactions (including signs of inflammation)
Precautions & warnings
- Seek medical advice if cold sore fails to heal within 2 weeks.
- Caution in immunocompromised patients.
- Do not use in eyes, mouth, nose, or genitals.
- Use with caution during pregnancy and lactation.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to any component.
Drug interactions
Consult your doctor before using with other topical medications.
Food interactions
No food interactions (topical application).
Use in pregnancy
Pregnancy Category: B. No adequate studies in pregnant women. Systemic exposure is minimal with topical use. Use only if clearly needed with medical advice.
Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
It is not known whether topically applied Aciclovir or Hydrocortisone is excreted in breast milk. Use with caution.
Pediatric use
Under 6 years: Safety and efficacy have not been established.
≥6 years: Adult dose applies.
Geriatric use
No dose adjustment needed for elderly patients.
Renal / hepatic impairment
No dose adjustment needed for renal or hepatic impairment with topical use (systemic absorption is minimal).
Overdose effects
Topical overdose is unlikely; excessive application may cause skin irritation.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C in a cool and dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Aciclovir 5% + Hydrocortisone 1%