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Overview: Docosanol is an over-the-counter medicine that is used to treat cold sores. It comes as a cream that is applied to the affected area. The most common side effects of docosanol may include burning or stinging where it is applied.

Uses

What is docosanol used for?

Docosanol is commonly used to treat cold sores, also known as fever blisters.

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

How does docosanol work (mechanism of action)?

Docosanol is an antiviral medicine. It prevents the herpes simplex virus from entering cells and making copies of itself. It helps shorten healing time and how long cold sore symptoms last. It is important to note that docosanol is not a cure. The herpes viruses remain in the body even if you do not have symptoms.

How is docosanol supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Abreva

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 10% topical cream

How should I store docosanol?

Docosanol should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F and 77 F (20 C to 25 C). Do not freeze.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of docosanol?

The most common side effects of docosanol may include burning or stinging where it is applied. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

There may be other side effects of docosanol 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 docosanol?

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

Severe Allergic Reactions. Docosanol may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using docosanol 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 docosanol?

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

  • Docosanol
  • Abreva
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product you are using

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific docosanol product you are using.

What should I know about docosanol before using it?

Follow the instructions that come with the product to be sure you use docosanol properly. Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure how or where to apply docosanol. 

Do not share docosanol with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. This may spread the infection. 

Keep docosanol out of the reach of children.

Docosanol should be used as soon as possible when you first have signs of a cold sore, such as tingling, redness, or burning. The sooner you use it, the better it will work. 

Wash your hands before and after applying the medicine. Remove any cosmetics before you apply it. 

Docosanol should be applied directly to cold sores on the lips or face. Rub it in gently but completely. Do not apply it in or near your eyes or inside your mouth.

Stop using docosanol and ask your healthcare provider if your cold sore gets worse or has not gotten better within 10 days. 

Avoid close contact with other people when you have a cold sore. 

What should I tell my healthcare provider before using docosanol?

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 docosanol is right for you.

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

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how docosanol could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if docosanol passes into breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Interactions

Does docosanol interact with foods or drinks?

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

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

Does docosanol interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

There are no known interactions between docosanol 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 docosanol?

If you or someone else has used too much docosanol, 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 docosanol?

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.