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Prophylaxis against herpes labialis with acyclovir cream--a placebo-controlled study
Dermatologica
|January 1, 1986
Summary
Topical acyclovir cream significantly reduced cold sore outbreaks in patients with frequent herpes labialis recurrences. This antiviral treatment led to fewer disease days and fewer cold sore attacks compared to placebo.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Virology
Background:
- Herpes labialis (cold sores) frequently recurs in some individuals.
- Recurrent herpes labialis significantly impacts quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of topical acyclovir cream in managing frequent herpes labialis recurrences.
- To compare acyclovir cream versus placebo in reducing cold sore disease burden.
Main Methods:
- Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study design.
- Patients applied acyclovir cream or placebo cream 4 times daily for 16 weeks.
- Follow-up observation period without treatment for 16 weeks post-treatment.
Main Results:
- Acyclovir cream treatment resulted in significantly fewer days of disease compared to placebo.
- Patients experienced significantly fewer cold sore attacks during acyclovir treatment versus placebo.
- Recurrences were observed during acyclovir treatment, but with reduced frequency and duration.
Conclusions:
- Topical acyclovir cream is an effective treatment for reducing the frequency and duration of herpes labialis recurrences.
- Acyclovir cream offers a beneficial therapeutic option for patients suffering from frequent cold sore outbreaks.
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