Penciclovir is phosphorylated in infected cells to penciclovir triphosphate, which inhibits HSV DNA polymerase, halting viral replication.

Penciclovir cream is indicated for the treatment of recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores).

Every 2 hours during waking hours

Application site reaction (1%)

Hypesthesia or local anesthesia (<1%)

Taste perversion (<1%)

Rash (erythematous) (<1%)

General: Headache, oral/pharyngeal edema, parosmia

Dermatologic: Skin irritation, urticaria, pruritus, local edema, skin discoloration, and pain

In patients with hypersensitivity to penciclovir or any components of the cream.

Use only on lips and face.

Avoid eyes and mucous membranes.

Not recommended for immunocompromised patients due to lack of data.

Evaluate for bacterial infection if lesions worsen or do not improve.