Ointment for labial and genital herpes: see the best options and prices

A ointment for herpes it is one of the possible treatment options for the infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. The topical medication aims to ease the symptoms associated with the formation of lesions in the mouth and genitals, in addition to helping the healing of wounds.

“A ointment for cold sores and genital herpes has antiviral substances in its formulation that help treat the Herpes simplex virus, healing the blisters and preventing the formation of new wounds”, explains gynecologist Carla Iaconelli. “They also help to reduce itching and relieve pain, in addition to accelerating the wound recovery process, which can last from seven to 10 days”, she adds.

Both cold sores and genital herpes can manifest themselves through the formation of skin lesions. They appear both in primary infection and in recurrent attacks and may contain clear and transparent content, in addition to having a reddish color on the skin. “These vesicles evolve into wounds, then into scabs and finally disappear”, says the gynecologist.

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Below, discover the best options for ointment for genital herpes and cold sores, how to apply them correctly, where to find them and for what price, approximately:

Acyclovir

Acyclovir is a ointment for herpes in the mouth and genitalia indicated for the treatment of infections caused by the virus, either in the first episode of the infection or in recurrent crises. The cream belongs to a group of drugs called antivirals, that is, that act by fighting the action of the virus – in this case, the herpes simplex and also varicella zoster, which causes herpes zoster.

This ointment for herpes acts directly on the virus, blocking its multiplication mechanisms in cells, reducing its power of infection. It should only be used for topical use, i.e. by application to the skin, directly on the wound, without rubbing it to avoid aggravation.

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Acyclovir ointment should be applied up to five times a day at approximately four hour intervals. In the treatment of cold sores, it must be applied for at least four days. As for genital herpes, use can be for five days.

“Treatment for genital herpes should always be started with antivirals in the form of pills and, if there is a medical indication, it should later be associated with an ointment to facilitate healing”, advises Carla.

Price

O Aciclovir herpes ointment price will vary according to the manufacturer and the pharmacy where it is marketed. In general, the value varies from R$ 20 to R$ 50. The ointment can be found in online and physical pharmacies.

Penciclovir

A Penciclovir is one of best ointments for genital herpes and lip, next to Aciclovir. It is composed of an antiviral agent that inhibits the action of Herpes simplex virus type 1 (lip) and type 2 (genital), in addition to the Varicella-zoster virus. Like Acyclovir, it should only be applied to the affected region, taking care to avoid worsening the symptom.

Penciclovir ointment should be applied at approximately two-hour intervals for four days, skipping the overnight period. Treatment with such an ointment for herpes should be started as soon as the first symptoms of the infection appear.

Price

Penciclovir ointment can be found in virtual and physical pharmacies under the trade name: Penvir Lábia cream. The average price varies between R$ 30 and R$ 50.

ezopen®

Ezopen® is the commercial name of another ointment for herpes whose active ingredient is the antiviral Aciclovir and, therefore, has the same performance. This is a topical medication indicated for the treatment of lesions caused by the virus. herpes simplexblocking the agent’s multiplication mechanisms in the cells, reducing the infection.

The ointment should be applied on the existing lesions soon after the onset of the first symptoms of the infection. In adults and children, Ezopen® should be applied five times a day, at intervals of approximately four hours, not counting the night period.

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Treatment should last four days for cold sores and five days for genital herpes at least. If there is no scarring, the treatment can be extended for another five days. If after 10 days the symptoms persist, it is necessary to consult a trusted doctor.

Price

The value of Ezopen® varies from R$ 20 to R$ 50 and can be found in online and physical pharmacies. There is also a version of the drug in coated tablet and lyophilized powder. Consult your doctor to find out which treatment option is best for you.

Extra care during the application of ointment and herpes treatment

Ointments are only one part of the treatment for genital and cold sores. In addition to using these medications, it is important to maintain a care routine throughout the wound healing process. Are they:

• Clean the area well with mild soap and water

• Clean your hands with water and neutral soap before and after applying the ointment

• Use the ointment at the times and for the period determined by the doctor

• Avoid citrus or spicy foods to avoid irritating the mouth sore.

Contraindications to the use of ointment for herpes

There are some contraindications to the use of the ointment that must be observed before using the medicine. Always check the package insert and talk to your doctor. We list the main ones below:

• The use of this drug is contraindicated in patients with a known allergy to acyclovir, valacyclovir, propylene glycol or any component of the drug. There are no age-related contraindications

• The use of Penciclovir ointment is contraindicated for children under 12 years of age, as no study has been carried out in this age group.

• The use of Ezopen® is contraindicated in patients with a known allergy to acyclovir, valacyclovir, propylene glycol or any component of the drug.

Regarding pregnant women, the use of ointments should not be carried out without medical advice. “Any treatment for pregnant women must be done with medical supervision so as not to harm the mother or the baby”, says gynecologist Carla.