STL Index for: Famciclovir

Herpes labialis is a frequently occurring viral infection of the lips and oral mucosa. Clinical data on the efficacy of topical combination acyclovir-hydrocortisone (Xerese™) product in treating herpes labialis are discussed.

This article reviews HSV infections around the lips (herpes labialis), and clinical trial data of a new formulation of topical 5% acyclovir with 1% hydrocortisone cream (Xerese®).

Recurrent herpes labialis is a common condition associated with the formation of vesicles around the mouth, often preceded by prodromal symptoms including tingling and burning. The purpose of this article is to serve as a practical guide in the management of recurrent herpes labialis by summarizing current treatments and discussing potential new therapies.

There are now several drugs available in Canada to treat herpes. This article focuses on Acyclovir, Vidarabine, and Foscarnet.

For the treatment of labial herpes, a single 1,500mg dose of famciclovir shortened the lesion healing time, shortened the time to normal skin, and resulted in faster resolution of pain and tenderness.

Cold sores can be an embarrassment. They can provide a source of herpes that can autoinoculate into the eye as well as infect others. In atopic dermatitis it can be become very widespread and can also produce erythema multiforme.

The Herpesviridae family (Types 1-8) continues to inflict considerable morbidity and social stigma upon humanity. Once infected with the herpes viruses, especially Types 1-3, they establish permanent residence within our nervous system and reactivate during periods of stress, trauma, and/or other precipitating factors.

Postherpetic neuralgia is a serious complication of herpes zoster that has a predilection for older individuals. Postherpetic neuralgia is often associated with significant morbidity, and it can cause insomnia, fatigue, depression and interference with daily activities in affected individuals.

Genital herpes simplex and herpes zoster infections are common afflictions that are associated with significant morbidity and a decreased quality of life. Famciclovir (Famvir®, Novartis) is an orally administered prodrug of the antiviral agent penciclovir.

Penciclovir cream (Vectavir™/Denavir™, SmithKline Beecham) is a novel product, approved in 15 countries including the USA and UK, for the treatment of herpes simplex labialis in immunocompetent adults.