Abreva, the brand name for the generic drug docosanol, is an over-the-counter antiviral medication indicated to alleviate symptoms associated with a cold sore resulting from infection by the herpes simplex virus. This medication is applied topically--directly to the site of the cold sore. Before beginning to use this medication, patients should review the Abreva warnings included with this cold sore treatment.
Age and Pregnancy Restrictions
This medication is indicated to alleviate cold sore symptoms in patients older than the age of 12, reports Drugs.com, a peer-reviewed drug information website. Children younger than age 12 and pregnant or breast-feeding women should contact a doctor for further guidance before using this medication.
Proper Use
Abreva should not be applied directly within the mouth, even if patients develop cold sores along the gums or inside the lips or cheeks, warns DailyMed, a drug information website established by the National Institutes of Health. This medication is for external use only and should be applied directly to the skin lesion site. Abreva should not be used on healthy or uninfected skin or in or near the eyes, as skin or eye irritation can occur. If the cold sore becomes worse or does not heal within 10 days, affected patients should stop using Abreva and contact a doctor, advises DailyMed.
Contamination Issues
Patients using Abreva should not share this medication with anyone else, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration states in the Abreva packaging information. Direct use of Abreva to the infected skin region can contaminate the container that holds the medication. As a result, patients who share this medication after using it can unintentionally spread the herpes simplex virus to other people.
Allergy Risks
Patients who have an allergy to this medication should not use Abreva, warns DailyMed. Allergic patients typically experience allergic reaction symptoms upon the first use of this medication. These allergic reaction symptoms can include lip, tongue or facial swelling; hives; itching or difficulty breathing. Patients who exhibit any of these symptoms while using Abreva should immediately stop treatment and promptly contact a medical professional.
