Fever Blisters 101

Also Known As:
Cold Sores, Herpes Simplex

Antiviral Ointments

[These ointments may require a prescription from a doctor (Depending on your country).]

• Acyclovir (Aciclovir)
  • Also sold as Cyclovir, Herpex, Acivir, Zovirax and Zovir
    • One of the most commonly-used antiviral drugs, it is primarily used for the treatment of herpes simplex virus infections, as well as in the treatment of herpes zoster (shingles).
    • Pharmacologist Gertrude B. Elion was awarded the 1988 Nobel Prize in Medicine, partly for the development of aciclovir.
      • Form: Tablets, topical cream, intravenous injection and ophthalmic ointment
• Famciclovir
  • Also sold as Famvir (Schering-Plough)
    • Used for the treatment of various herpesvirus infections, most commonly for herpes zoster (shingles)
      • Form: Tablets
• Valaciclovir (valacyclovir)
  • Also sold as Valtrex or Zelitrex
    • Used for the management of herpes simplex and herpes zoster (shingles)
      • Form: Tablets