Medication guide
Docosanol (10%)
- Generic name
- Docosanol (10%)
- Common brand names
- Abreva Cold Sore Cream
- Medication class
- Topical antiviral (herpes labialis)
Overview
Its medication class is Topical antiviral (herpes labialis). Common uses include Early cold sore symptom shortening. Product forms and labels can differ, so follow the specific package instructions and ask a pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional about individual questions.
How to Take it
Editorial correction, September 24, 2026: the imported route label was corrected using the references below. This does not constitute a full medical review of the guide.
- Route
- Topical cream for cold sores on the face or lips. Do not apply inside the mouth or in or near the eyes.
- Time of day
- At symptom onset and before bed when sore-throat or oral discomfort occurs.
- With food/water
- Do not swallow concentrated products unless label allows; sip plain water if needed.
- Preparation
- Apply thinly or allow to dissolve as directed.
- Safe dose
- Use smallest amount needed and short-term intervals.
- Max dose
- Stay within label daily limit; avoid use in young children unless approved.
- Frequency
- Often every 2–6 hours as needed.
- Other recommendations
- Avoid alcohol mouth rinses and follow age restrictions.
Common uses
- Early cold sore symptom shortening
Common side effects
- Burning
- itching
- skin irritation
- headache
- and contact dermatitis
Important warnings
- Use at earliest symptoms. Not a substitute for antiviral therapy in severe recurrent herpes. Avoid if lesions are severe/immunocompromised without clinician guidance. Stop and seek care for worsening lesions, eye involvement, facial swelling, or fever.
General interactions information
Low interactions; avoid mucosal overuse
Sources / references
- Abreva docosanol 10% cream — product label
DailyMed, U.S. National Library of Medicine
These references offer further reading. A source link does not establish that a clinician has reviewed every statement in this guide.
Editorial record
Recorded content review date:
A named medical reviewer and their credentials have not yet been documented for this guide.
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