Dermatology Handbook

The professional's guide to product selection

Topical antivirals

Fenistil Cold Sore Cream

Fenistil contains penciclovir, which has demonstrable in vivo and in vitro activity against herpes simplex viruses (types 1 and 2) and varicella zoster virus. In virus-infected cells penciclovir is rapidly and efficiently converted into a triphosphate (mediated via virus-induced thymidine kinase)

Zovirax

Contains aciclovir, which is an antiviral agent that is highly active in vitro against herpes simplex virus (HSV) types I and II and varicella zoster virus (including initial and recurrent genital herpes and herpes labialis)