What it is used for
- Treating genital herpes, first and repeat episodes.
- Treating shingles.
- Treating chickenpox.
- Cream: treating repeat cold sores on the lips.
- Injection in hospital for severe herpes, such as brain infection or in weak immunity.
How it is used
- Take it exactly as your doctor prescribed; your doctor decides the dose.
- Start as soon as possible after symptoms appear, as your doctor advises.
- Apply the cream only to the affected area and wash your hands afterwards.
- Injection and eye ointment are used under medical supervision; injections are given in hospital.
Before and while using it
- Drink enough fluids during treatment.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease.
- Herpes is contagious; avoid touching sores or letting others contact them.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Get medical help straight away if
- Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
- You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
- A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Questions about this medicine?
Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.
Source: National drug formulary 2023, page 156
This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.