What is Aciclovir 5% Cream?
Aciclovir 5% Cream is a topical antiviral cream used to treat cold sores (herpes labialis), which are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Each gram of cream contains 50 mg of aciclovir, the active substance.
To order through DoktorABC, you'll be asked to complete a short online questionnaire, which is reviewed by a pharmacist to confirm the cream is a suitable choice for your symptoms. It is intended for the treatment of cold sores on the lips and face only, and is not suitable for genital herpes or for use in or near the eyes or mouth.
How does Aciclovir 5% Cream work?
Aciclovir belongs to a class of medicines called antivirals. Once absorbed into skin cells infected with HSV-1, it interferes with the virus's ability to copy its genetic material, slowing its replication. This helps to reduce how quickly the outbreak develops and supports faster healing of the blisters.
Aciclovir cream works best when applied as early as possible, ideally during the tingling or itching stage that often comes before a cold sore is visible. Starting treatment at this prodromal stage gives the cream the best chance of limiting how the outbreak progresses. It can still be used once a blister has appeared, though the effect may be less pronounced by that stage.
How and when to apply it
Apply the cream at the first sign of a cold sore, such as tingling, redness, or itching, rather than waiting for a blister to form. Cream is generally applied several times a day, for a limited number of days, until the cold sore has healed.
The exact frequency and duration of treatment can vary between brands. Always follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet supplied with your specific product, or ask a pharmacist, rather than relying on this page as your dosing guide. If your cold sore has not started to improve after this period, or keeps coming back, speak to your prescriber. .
What results to expect
Used correctly, and especially when started early, aciclovir cream can shorten how long a cold sore lasts and reduce how severe the symptoms are, such as pain, itching, and burning. It does not cure the underlying infection. Herpes simplex virus remains in the body between outbreaks, and the cream does not eliminate it or prevent future cold sores from developing. It is a treatment for individual episodes, not a long-term preventative measure.
When to take extra care
Do not use Aciclovir 5% Cream if you have a known allergy to aciclovir, valaciclovir, or any of the other ingredients listed in the product's patient information leaflet.
The cream is intended for cold sores on the lips and face only. It should not be used:
- On genital herpes
- Inside the mouth, for example for mouth ulcers
- In or near the eyes
- For any skin condition other than a cold sore
If your cold sore is unusually severe, if you have a weakened immune system, or if symptoms don't fit the usual pattern of a cold sore, speak to your prescriber rather than self-treating.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your prescriber before use, so they can advise on whether this cream is appropriate for you.
Application tips
- Wash your hands before and after applying the cream
- Use a clean fingertip or cotton bud to apply a thin layer to the affected area
- Avoid touching the cold sore more than necessary, to reduce the risk of spreading the infection
- Don't share your tube with anyone else
- Take care to avoid contact with your eyes; if the cream does get into your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water
Possible side effects
Like all medicines, Aciclovir 5% Cream can cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. The most commonly reported effects are mild and localised to the application site, such as:
- Stinging or burning
- Dryness or flaking of the skin
- Itching
These effects are usually short-lived. Stop using the cream and seek advice from your prescriber if you notice signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling, a widespread rash, or difficulty breathing, or if irritation is severe or does not settle.
Cream compared to tablets
Aciclovir cream is best suited to occasional, mild, localised cold sores that are caught early, since the antiviral effect is concentrated at the site of application.
For people who get frequent or more severe outbreaks, oral antiviral treatment, such as aciclovir or valaciclovir tablets, may be considered instead. Tablets work throughout the body rather than just at the surface of the skin, and are available on prescription following an online consultation. If cold sores are a regular occurrence for you, it may be worth discussing tablet options through our cold sores category, where a UK-registered prescriber can assess what's appropriate for your circumstances.
How to get Aciclovir 5% Cream through DoktorABC
Ordering Aciclovir 5% Cream through DoktorABC involves the same short questionnaire used across our sexual health treatments. Complete the online questionnaire about your symptoms and medical history, and a UK-registered pharmacist will review your answers to check if the cream is appropriate before your order is approved and delivered discreetly to your door.
Important information: DoktorABC UK is a digital health platform that connects patients with independent, UK-registered prescribers and pharmacists. DoktorABC UK does not itself provide medical care or dispense medicines. All clinical decisions are made by the relevant healthcare professional following an individual assessment.
Aciclovir 5% Cream Patient Information Leaflet via the Electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC)
The PIL in your medicine pack may differ from the version on this website, as it may have been updated since your medicine was packaged or the medicine may be from another brand. This page provides general information only and does not replace the PIL or individual medical advice.
