Acyclovir - hydrocortisone should be started immediately after you notice the first signs or symptoms of a cold sore. It should be applied to all the lesions 5 times a day for 5 days. To reduce the risk of transferring the infection or irritating the area, avoid vigorously rubbing the cream into the skin.
Acyclovir - hydrocortisone topical cream should be applied only to the lips and around the mouth where a cold sore is developing. Avoid using Xerese around the eyes, inside the mouth, nose or eyes, on the genitals or the rectal area. Do not cover the cold sore or area around it with a bandage.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after applying the cream. This will help you to prevent infecting the cold sore with bacteria and prevent spreading the cold sore virus to other areas and other people.
If you have not noticed any improvement after 2 weeks, contact your doctor for further advice.
It is important that Xerese be applied exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store Xerese at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.