Docosanol

Class: Antivirals
ATC Class: D06BB11
VA Class: DE103
Chemical Name: 1-Docosanol
Molecular Formula: C₂₂H₄₆O
CAS Number: 661-19-8
Brands: Abreva

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Apr 21, 2022. Written by ASHP.

Introduction

Saturated aliphatic alcohol with antiviral activity against various Herpesviridae, including herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1).

Uses for Docosanol

Herpes Labialis

Topical treatment of recurrent herpes labialis (perioral herpes, cold sores, fever blisters).

Available for self-medication (OTC use).

Safety and efficacy in immunocompromised individuals not established.

Docosanol Dosage and Administration

Administration

Topical Administration

Apply topically to affected areas of the lips and surrounding skin as a 10% cream.

Do not apply in or near the eyes or inside the mouth.

Supplied as a smooth, odorless, tasteless white cream that dries clear. When applying, rub in gently and completely.

Wash hands before and after application process.

For best results, remove any cosmetics from affected areas prior to applying or reapplying the 10% cream.

Cosmetics may be applied to lips or skin after application of the 10% cream. Avoid spreading the HSV infection by using a separate applicator (e.g., cotton swab) to apply cosmetics or sunscreen over unhealed lesions.

Dosage

Pediatric Patients

Herpes Labialis

Topical

Children≥12 years of age: Apply to affected areas 5 times daily until healed (maximum 10 days). Use sufficient quantity to adequately cover lesions and symptomatic area (e.g., area with tingling).

Initiate at earliest sign or symptom (i.e., tingling, pruritus, redness, presence of a bump) of herpes labialis.

Adults

Herpes Labialis

Topical

Apply to affected areas 5 times daily until healed (maximum 10 days). Use sufficient quantity to adequately cover lesions and symptomatic area (e.g., area with tingling).

Initiate at earliest sign or symptom (i.e., tingling, pruritus, redness, presence of a bump) of herpes labialis.

Prescribing Limits

Maximum 10 days of treatment.

Special Populations

No special population recommendations at this time.

Cautions for Docosanol

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to docosanol or any ingredient in the formulation.

Warnings/Precautions

General Precautions

Use only for symptomatic treatment of herpes labialis lesions. Not indicated for preventi...