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Overview: Xerese (acyclovir/hydrocortisone) is a topical cream that is used to treat cold sores. It contains an antiviral medicine and a corticosteroid. Common side effects may include tingling or burning, dryness or flaking, or changes in skin color where the cream is applied.

Uses

What is Xerese used for?

Xerese (acyclovir/hydrocortisone) is commonly used to treat cold sores and manage cold sore symptoms. 

Xerese may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.

How does Xerese work (mechanism of action)?

Xerese is a combination of acyclovir and hydrocortisone.  

Acyclovir is an antiviral medicine that stops the growth of herpes viruses and improves symptoms. Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that helps reduce certain symptoms that can happen with cold sores, such as pain or irritation. 

It is important to note that Xerese is not a cure. The herpes viruses remain in the body even if you do not have symptoms. 

How is Xerese supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Xerese

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 5%/1% topical cream

How should I store Xerese?

Xerese should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F to 86 F (15 C to 30 C) for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place. Do not freeze.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of Xerese?

The most common side effects of Xerese are listed below. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

  • Drying or flaking of the skin
  • Burning or tingling
  • Skin redness, changes in skin color, or swelling where Xerese is applied

There may be other side effects of Xerese that are not listed here. Contact your healthcare provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of Xerese?

While less common, the most serious side effects of Xerese are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Xerese may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using Xerese and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use Xerese?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use Xerese.

  • Xerese
  • Acyclovir
  • Hydrocortisone
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in Xerese.

What should I know about Xerese before using it?

Do not use Xerese unless it has been prescribed to you by a healthcare provider. Use it as prescribed.

Do not share Xerese with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.

Keep Xerese out of the reach of children.

Start using this medicine as soon as possible after you first notice cold sore symptoms, such as tingling, burning, itching, or redness.

Apply Xerese to the affected area, including the outer area of the cold sore. It should only be used on the lips and around the mouth. Do not apply Xerese in the eyes, mouth, or nose, or on the genital area. 

Do not rub the cold sore to avoid aggravating it or spreading the infection. Do not cover the area with a bandage. Do not use other topical products on or near the cold sore, such as sunscreen, makeup, or lip balm.

If your cold sore does not heal within two weeks, tell your healthcare professional.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before using Xerese?

Tell your healthcare provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if Xerese is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Weak Immune System. Tell your healthcare provider if you have a weak immune system before using Xerese.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how Xerese could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should use Xerese while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if Xerese passes into breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should use Xerese while breastfeeding.

How can I get more information about Xerese?

For more information about Xerese, you can visit the manufacturer’s website at www.xerese.com or call them at 800-321-4576. 

Interactions

Does Xerese interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between Xerese and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect Xerese, but heavy drinking can slow your immune response and make it harder for your body to fight infection.

Does Xerese interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

There are no known interactions between Xerese and other medicines. Always tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much Xerese?

If you or someone else has used too much Xerese, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Xerese?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only use the next dose. Do not use double or extra doses.