Acitop cream is a safe and effective medication for treating cold sores. It is important to start using Acitop cream as soon as possible after you notice a cold sore developing. This will help to shorten the duration of the cold sore and reduce the severity of the symptoms.
Acitop Is Used For
Acitop cream is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of herpes simplex infections of the lips. Both the initial and recurrent infections can be successfully treated.
Dosage
Adults and children: Apply 5 – 6 times daily at four-hourly intervals.
Therapy should be initiated as soon as possible following the onset of signs and symptoms of herpes simplex infection.
This is particularly important in the treatment of recurrent episodes. Treatment should be continued for 5 days. If healing has not occurred, the treatment may be prolonged for up to 10 days.
Do not exceed the recommended dose. Use a finger cot or a rubber glove to prevent auto inoculation. Cover all lesions adequately.
How to use Acitop?
To apply Acitop cream, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Then, apply a thin layer of cream to the affected area of the skin. Be sure to apply the cream to all areas of the skin that are affected by the cold sore, even if they are not red or painful.
You can use Acitop cream with or without a bandage. If you choose to use a bandage, be sure to change it at least once a day.
Acitop Contains
Each 1 g of cream contains 50 mg of acyclovir (5.0 % w/w acyclovir).
Other Ingredients
Chlorocresol 0.12 % m/m, disodium EDTA, cetomacrogol 1000, cetostearyl alcohol, dimethicone, liquid paraffin, propylene glycol, white soft paraffin, self emulsifying glyceryl monostearate.
Therapeutic Classification
Antivirals.
What is Acitop?
Acitop is a brand name for acyclovir cream, which is a medication used to treat cold sores (also known as fever blisters). It is a member of the antiviral drug class. Acyclovir works by stopping the growth of the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which causes cold sores.
How does Acitop work?
Acyclovir cream is applied directly to the affected area of the skin. It works by entering the cells that are infected with HSV and then being converted into its active form, acyclovir triphosphate. The active form of acyclovir then binds to the DNA of the HSV virus and prevents it from replicating. This stops the virus from spreading and causing more cold sores.
What are the uses of Acitop?
Acitop is used to treat cold sores that have already developed. It is not effective in preventing cold sores from occurring. Acitop cream can be used to treat cold sores in adults and children over the age of 2 years.
Side effects of Acitop
Acitop cream is generally well-tolerated. However, some people may experience side effects such as:
- Burning or stinging at the application site
- Irritation of the skin
- Rash
- Dry skin
- Itching
- Redness
If you experience any side effects that are bothersome or do not go away, talk to your doctor.
Precautions and warnings for Acitop
Acitop cream should not be used if you are allergic to acyclovir or any of the other ingredients in the cream. Acitop cream should also not be used if you have a skin condition that is not caused by the herpes simplex virus.
Acitop cream is not safe for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using Acitop cream.
Interactions with other drugs
Acitop cream may interact with other drugs, such as:
- Probenecid
- Zidovudine
- Didanosine
If you are taking any other medications, talk to your doctor before using Acitop cream.
Storage and disposal of Acitop
Acitop cream should be stored at room temperature (between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit). Keep Acitop cream out of the reach of children and pets.
Discard any unused Acitop cream after the expiration date.
Overdose of Acitop
Overdose of Acitop cream is unlikely. However, if you accidentally swallow Acitop cream, contact your poison control center or the emergency room immediately.
Conclusion
Acitop cream is a safe and effective medication for treating cold sores. It is important to start using Acitop cream as soon as possible after you notice a cold sore developing. This will help to shorten the duration of the cold sore and reduce the severity of the symptoms.
FAQs for Acitop Cream
How long does it take for Acitop cream to work?
Acitop cream can start to work within a few hours of application. However, it may take up to 4 days for the cold sore to completely heal.
Can I use Acitop cream on my lips?
Yes, Acitop cream can be used on the lips. However, it is important to avoid getting the cream in your eyes.
Can I use Acitop cream if I have a cold?
Yes, you can use Acitop cream if you have a cold. However, Acitop cream will not treat the cold itself. It will only treat the cold sore that may develop as a result of the cold.
Can I use Acitop cream if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Acitop cream is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using Acitop cream.
What are the alternatives to Acitop cream?
There are a number of other medications that can be used to treat cold sores, such as:
- Valacyclovir
- Famciclovir
- Penciclovir
These medications are all available as oral tablets or topical creams.
How can I prevent cold sores?
There is no sure way to prevent cold sores. However, there are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of getting a cold sore, such as:
- Avoid touching your lips
- Wash your hands frequently
- Avoid stress
- Get enough sleep
- Eat a healthy diet
- Manage your colds and flu symptoms
