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There are eight identified human herpes viruses, including herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1. HSV-1 infections are commonly called "cold sores" or ?"ever blisters". Cold sores usually begin as small, red blisters. They can often combine into larger lesions and become covered in crust. Transmission of HSV-1 occurs through direct contact with intact mucous membranes. Once a patient becomes infected, they can have recurring outbreaks of lesions throughout their lifetime. The virus can remain dormant for months at a time until a trigger "reactivates" it and an outbreak occurs. Repeated outbreaks may result in additional lesions occurring close to each other that, over time, unite with each other. These groupings of lesions do respond to preventive therapy, such as sun block or anti-viral drugs.
The most common dosage forms used to treat cold sores include lip ointments, creams and topical gels, with the most convenient form being a medicated lip balm. Topical liquids can be used as well, but they must contain either a thickening agent or a volatile solvent so the liquid does not spread from the treatment area.
Central Drugs recommends the following formulations for Cold Sores:
Acyclovir 10% Flavored Lip Ointment |
Acyclovir 2% Deoxy-D-Glucose (2) 0.2% Lip Balm |
Acyclovir 5% in Oral Adhesive Paste |
Acyclovir 5%/ Octyl Dimethyl PABA 3% Lip Balm w/ Red Color |
Acyclovir 5%/ Octyl Dimethyl PABA 3% Lip Emollient w/ Red Color |
Acyclovir 5%/ PABA 0.75% Lip Balm |
Acyclovir Lip Balm |
Acyclovir w/ Lidocaine 1% Lip Balm |
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