Modern pharmaceutical consulting is not only a test of professional knowledge, but also a real test of the character of the leader. Many buyers are confident that they have a good understanding of medications, and from this position they communicate with a pharmacist or pharmacist. At the same time, they can take antibiotics “to prevent ARVI” or retell the most sophisticated advice from popular TV presenters. In such a situation, the chief administrator should, on the one hand, dispense the required over-the-counter drugs, on the other hand, warn the person about the danger of his misconceptions regarding drugs, and on the third, not take on the role of a doctor and not make a diagnosis based on symptoms. Confusion and misunderstanding can arise even over something as simple as a seasonal problem like orolabial herpes. Our “cheat sheets” are intended to help the pharmacist communicate with the client on this topic. With the season of winter infectious exacerbations on the rise, let’s remember once again what most often worries customers with requests for remedies for “colds on the lips.”
How to get rid of herpes: the most effective ointments.
June 30, 2022
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Content
- Which ointment for herpes to choose
- Herpes symptoms
- How to treat herpes
- The best ointments for herpes
- Oksolin
- Herpferon
- Zovirax
- Fenistil Pencivir
- Panavir-gel
- Erazaban
- Herperax
- Alpizarin
We are sure that everyone has had herpes (popularly known as a cold on the lips) at least once in their life. Moreover, almost 100% of the world's population has the herpes virus in their bodies. But for the majority, it seems to be “dormant,” and as soon as the immune system weakens, the body becomes hypothermic, or the time comes for seasonal ARVI, herpes becomes more active. Moreover, sores on the lips are the most harmless version of herpes.
Based on the recommendations of doctors, we have compiled a list of effective and safe ointments for the quick treatment of herpes on the lips. But you need to understand that any remedy for herpes has contraindications, so it is advisable to consult a doctor before treatment.
I caught a cold, and lo and behold, my lips were covered. Give me some tea for colds
You are confusing two completely different infections - respiratory and herpes. A cold, or ARVI, develops when the body is infected with respiratory viruses. But a “cold on the lips,” or a relapse of orolabial herpes, appears when the herpes simplex viruses, which live in the body constantly, are activated. Therefore, when itching or rash appears on the lips, traditional cold remedies are not effective: they only act on the symptoms of acute respiratory viral infections or respiratory viruses. In the case of “cold lips,” it is advisable to use antiviral drugs that are active against herpes simplex pathogens.
Which ointment for herpes to choose
There are many drugs for herpes in the pharmacy, although they all have the same active ingredient - acyclovir (or its more modern analogues). But it is worth considering that ointments for herpes, even with the same active substance, can act on the body differently, because a lot depends on the quality of purification of this substance. If you have herpes on your lips and are planning to buy ointment, consider the following parameters:
- Age.
Each active substance has its own parameters according to the age from which it is allowed to be used. Acyclovir, for example, is contraindicated under 18 years of age. Penciclovir can be used from the age of 16; a doctor can prescribe valacyclovir from the age of 12. - Tendency to allergies.
In addition to the main active ingredient, auxiliary agents (preservatives, dyes, flavors) are also added to the preparations. These components can cause allergic reactions with unpredictable manifestations. Before using ointment for herpes (especially on the face or intimate area), do a skin test on your wrist and see how it reacts.
Do not forget that many drugs are prohibited for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. But there is one drug for herpes that can be used during these periods - Gevisosh .
, the active substance of which is epervudine.
Gevisosh
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, Germany
An antiviral agent that is active against the Herpes simplex virus and herpes zoster virus.
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When to use Oxolinic ointment
Traditionally, the medicine is used during respiratory epidemics and when communicating with possible carriers of influenza viruses. The list of indications for use of the drug includes:
- influenza and other respiratory viral pathologies;
- blepharitis;
- inflammation of the conjunctiva;
- lichen lesions;
- molluscum contagiosum;
- dermatitis;
- herpes stomatitis;
- skin warts of viral origin.
The use of medicine for preventive purposes and at an early stage of pathologies is more effective than for advanced infections. To achieve a pronounced therapeutic effect, this drug must be combined with other drugs.
Herpes symptoms
The herpes virus has several types. The most common type 1 herpes virus occurs - it usually appears on the upper half of the body (face, hands). The second type of herpes virus is genital. How does the herpes virus manifest itself:
- burning and tingling in those places where bubbles with liquid will later appear;
- wounds form in place of the bubbles;
- Sometimes with herpes, fever, swollen lymph nodes or sore throat are possible.
Well, since the virus does not disappear from the body, you need to be prepared for relapses as soon as the immune system weakens.
Genital herpes in men
In men, the second type of virus is most common. When engaging in oral sex, approximately 24 percent have type 1 herpes. More often it is a combination of two types of herpes simplex.
The disease in men is characterized by rashes in the penis, testicles, and anus.
During the period of weakening of the body, the virus manifests itself in rashes. And in a latent form it occurs as a chronic pathology. It gradually affects the autonomic and central nervous system, the mucous membranes of the urethra. And when the process is generalized - the liver, brain and other organs.
Herpes appears 2-4 days after infection. It could be:
- slight increase in temperature;
- general malaise, weakness;
- pain and aches in the joints and muscles may be observed;
- there may be tingling and burning of the skin in the groin area;
- painful urination;
- the appearance of a pimple or group of pimples on the head of the penis or scrotum.
If no other infection occurs, the symptoms disappear on their own.
The virus is transmitted to a partner through sexual contact - oral, anal or classical. Infection can occur not necessarily when there is a rash on the skin, but also during the asymptomatic period of the disease.
A man also becomes infected from a sick woman, even if she has no symptoms of the disease. The virus is present in vaginal secretions and urine, as well as in saliva. If a woman has herpes on her lips (type 1), it can be transmitted to a man through oral sex, and the rash will appear on the penis.
Answers to frequently asked questions on venereology:
- How to prepare for an appointment with a venereologist?
- How to get tested for sexually transmitted diseases?
- What tests can be done by a venereologist at the clinic?
- What symptoms should you consult a venereologist for?
- What diseases does a venereologist treat?
- What diagnostics can a venereologist perform in your clinic?
- How to call a venereologist at home?
- Venereological care at home
- Venereological care in the clinic
- What equipment does the venereologist use in our clinic?
- How to make an appointment with a venereologist?
How to treat herpes
Herpes can go away on its own, without any treatment, but if the wounds do not go away for a long time or they are large, you will have to use some medications.
- Antiviral agents.
Similar drugs against herpes come in tablets and ointments with an analgesic effect. The active ingredient in herpes medications is acyclovir and its analogues, which block the DNA of the virus and stop its reproduction. But medications for herpes are still unable to cure it completely. - Ointments for wound healing.
The most popular wound healing ointments today are based on panthenol (vitamin B5). Such ointments for herpes are used as soon as the blisters have opened to speed up the healing process of wounds. - Drying agents.
Among the most famous and accessible ointments with a drying effect is zinc ointment, which, among other things, relieves inflammation and is a good antiseptic. By the way, for herpes you can use several remedies from these three groups at once, but before that you need to consult a doctor.
Genital herpes in women
Infection occurs mainly through unprotected sexual contact with a sick man. Moreover, it is possible to get the virus through oral and anal sex. It is possible that the virus can be transferred by hands to the genitals.
If a woman has herpes, rashes are observed on:
- labia, groin area, buttocks;
- in the vestibule of the vagina;
- in the perineum;
- on the walls of the vagina, on the cervix;
- on the rectal mucosa.
Women become infected with herpes more often than men, since there are more accessible areas covered with mucous membrane. It is not necessary that the man have clinical manifestations of the disease in the form of rashes. The virus is found in semen and urine.
Herpes in women can cause early and late miscarriages and damage to the fetus during pregnancy.
Herpes of the bladder and urethral canal is also found. When the disease worsens, urination is very painful and bloody. May be accompanied by bladder pain and fever.
The pathological process may involve the mucous membrane of the rectum (cracks form), pain in the pelvis and in the area of the projection of the uterus, damage to the ovaries (symptoms of irritation of the pelvic nerve coupling). More often, such manifestations occur before or immediately after menstruation.
The nature of the disease is not always determined and recognized. Sometimes women are treated with antiviral and antibacterial drugs to no avail and for a long time.
The best ointments for herpes
Our rating includes the most effective ointments for herpes, which are often prescribed by doctors. From accessible, cheap to more expensive, but equally helpful. Choose any one after consulting with your doctor, and remember this important advice: the sooner you start treatment, at the very first symptoms, the faster the herpes will go away.
Read also Review of popular drugs against thrush The most popular drugs against thrush for internal and external use
Oksolin
This antiviral non-hormonal inexpensive ointment is recommended for chickenpox, rashes and herpes of the first and second types. A white ointment with a uniform consistency and specific odor is indicated for external use only. The active ingredient in ointment for herpes, oxolin, perfectly fights viruses, penetrating inside viral cells and destroying them. Oxolinic ointment acts on the DNA of the virus, stopping its reproduction. You need to smear wounds from herpes with “Oxolin” several times a day until complete recovery.
Oksolin
OJSC "Lubnyfarm", Ukraine
The active ingredient of Oxolinic ointment is oxolin, which has antiviral activity against the influenza virus and herpes simplex virus.
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Indications
The main indication of oxolinic ointment is the prevention of infection with influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections in case of probable contacts with sick people or during seasonal epidemics.
The medicine has proven itself in the complex treatment of the following infections:
- viral rhinitis, acute respiratory infections;
- inflammation of the eyelid mucosa, keratitis, conjunctivitis;
- skin warts;
- scaly, herpes zoster and vesicular lichen;
- Dühring's dermatitis;
- molluscum contagiosum;
- stomatitis of herpes origin.
The therapeutic effect of the ointment is most pronounced in the initial stages of the disease.
Herpferon
The active ingredients of this herpes ointment are interferon alpha-2b and acyclovir. In addition, "Gerpferon", unlike other similar products, contains lidocaine, which perfectly anesthetizes the area affected by herpes. By the way, “Gerpferon” is suitable for treating herpes on the oral mucosa. As for the use of this ointment for herpes during pregnancy and breastfeeding, there is no data on this, so it is better to consult a doctor. Reviews about Gerpferon ointment are positive, but many patients note its high cost.
Herpferon
Firn M, Russia
primary and recurrent herpetic lesions of the skin and mucous membranes;
genital herpes; herpes zoster. from 213
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What does genital herpes look like?
Genital herpes is characterized by rashes on the penis, on the head of the penis, in the vagina, on the urethra, on the cervix, in the anus, on the rectal mucosa.
The incubation period lasts from 2 to 14 days. And then the characteristic herpes blisters are visible:
- small in size, grouped together;
- filled with a clear liquid that contains a huge number of viruses;
- after opening the bubbles, an ulcer forms, which dries out with a crust.
Itching and burning occur during the period of redness and swelling of the skin or mucous membrane. Then the pain intensifies with the formation of erosions and ulcers. The size of the affected skin can vary from 0.5 to 3 centimeters.
There may be many bubbles, or there may be just a few. If bacterial flora joins the ulcers, the wounds become covered with purulent plaque.
No blisters form on the mucous membrane of the vulva, but an ulcer immediately appears.
If herpes rashes form on the cervix or vagina, sexual intercourse becomes impossible due to severe pain.
Symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases:
- Discharge from the urethra
- Vaginal discharge
- Itching in the vagina
- Discharge from the genitals
- Pain in the scrotum
- Pain when urinating
- Itching in the urethra
- Blood in sperm
- Itching of the vulva
- Pus on the labia
- Burning in the urethra
- Perineal pain
- Redness of the glans penis
- Frequent urination
- Itching of the glans penis
- Itching of the scrotum
- Rectal prolapse
- Foreskin rupture
Zovirax
Zovirax is perhaps the most popular ointment for herpes. The active ingredient in Zovirax is acyclovir. And to make the product more gentle on the skin and mucous membranes, propylene glycol, glycerin and other components are also added to the composition. Despite the higher price than regular Acyclovir, patients often choose Zovirax as an effective remedy for herpes that quickly gets rid of the problem.
Zovirax
GlaxoSmithKline, France
Antiviral agent for the treatment of infections of the skin and mucous membranes caused by the Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, incl.
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Fenistil Pencivir
One of the most effective remedies against herpes. The active ingredient in Fenistil Pencivir cream is penciclovir, which is considered safer than acyclovir. Penciclovir is an analogue of acyclovir, but more modern, with virtually no side effects. Fenistil Pencivir can be used by pregnant women (but only if the prescription is approved by the doctor!). You need to apply the herpes cream about eight times a day. Fenistil Pencivir does not need to be stored in the refrigerator, like many similar herpes remedies. This cream is odorless, does not leave marks on clothes and is suitable for children over 12 years of age. But they cannot be used to treat the mucous membranes and skin around the eyes.
Fenistil pencivir
Novartis Pharma Services AG (Novartis Pharma), Switzerland
- recurrent herpes simplex localized on the lips (herpes labialis).
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I always bought ointment with acyclovir for herpes on the lips. Maybe there is something more modern now?
Acyclovir is truly a drug with “experience”: it was synthesized back in 1977 [4]. In those years, it was an innovative drug that offered a unique opportunity to control herpes infection. Today it remains one of the most popular remedies against herpes, although, of course, it has competitors. However, it cannot be said that they have any significant advantages compared to acyclovir.
Thus, the only alternative to local forms of acyclovir, penciclovir, which is also available in the form of an ointment, has a structure and mechanism of action similar to the parent of the group. Research results indicate that 1% penciclovir is as effective for cold sores as 3% acyclovir [5]. However, if acyclovir is applied 5 times a day, then penciclovir should be used a little more often - every 2 hours. Whether it makes sense to change the drug is up to you to decide.
Panavir-gel
This herpes remedy is the only one on our list that comes in gel form rather than ointment form. The main advantage of Panavir Gel is that it is created on a plant basis; it is a homeopathic drug. Its active ingredient is not acyclovir, as in other herpes remedies, but an extract of potato shoots. Therefore, if you are allergic to acyclovir and its analogues and are looking for a gentle remedy for herpes, Panavir-gel is just such a medicine.
Panavir-gel
Zelenaya oakbrava JSC, Russia
Panavir-gel is an antiviral and immunomodulatory agent, the indications for which are: infectious and inflammatory diseases of the skin and/or mucous membranes caused by the herpes simplex virus types I and II, incl.
genital herpes. from 121
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Antiviral drugs
Their goal is to suppress the pathogen, shorten the duration of the exacerbation, and reduce the intensity of symptoms. The most popular products are Acyclovir and Zovirax in the form of tablets and creams. Using cream in the mouth is difficult, so tablets are optimal. They drink them in a course.
It is better to start treatment at the first signs of the disease. In some cases it can be stopped. Interferon nasal drops have also shown their effectiveness in the initial stages of herpes. At the very least, they prevent the spread of infection into the respiratory tract.
We have already found out that the main reason for the manifestation of herpes is weakened immunity. Conclusion: to avoid relapses, it is necessary to increase the body's defenses. To do this, you should contact an immunologist, who will refer you for diagnostics and prescribe individual treatment. Sometimes it includes immunomodulators - drugs that can increase immunity (Immunal, Imudon and others), folk remedies (for example, echinacea tincture), vitamin and mineral complexes. You can also take specialized complexes of vitamins and minerals, for example, ASEPTA® Parodontal to strengthen teeth and gums: its active components help not only reduce bleeding and inflammation in the oral cavity, but also maintain general immunity.
General recommendations on how to strengthen the body and increase its protection:
- avoid stress, improve sleep;
- include as many fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs in your diet as possible;
- to drink a lot of water;
- exercise or swimming.
In case of exacerbation of herpes on the gums, it is recommended to adhere to a diet: remove spicy, fatty, too hot foods from the diet, exclude hot and alcoholic drinks. To avoid irritating the mucous membranes, avoid smoking.
The difficulty of using creams and ointments is not a reason to refuse local treatment for herpes. Rinsing and irrigating the oral mucosa will help relieve symptoms and prevent the spread of infection. Good products: Hexoral, chlorhexidine, hydrogen peroxide solution, furatsilin, as well as anesthetic sprays, rinsing solutions, gels with anesthetics (for example, Lidoxor gel, which relieves burning and irritation). Adhesive gum balm ASEPTA® is an effective combined antimicrobial agent that has a wide spectrum of action against gum disease pathogens, thanks to the combination of metronidazole + chlorhexidine, and guarantees long-term fixation on the gums.
Erazaban
Herpes ointment "Erazaban" perfectly treats and heals herpetic rashes. The active ingredient in herpes ointment, docosanol, effectively fights the herpes simplex virus. The good thing is that Erazaban ointment, when applied externally, does not penetrate the bloodstream and does not affect the functioning of the body. This ointment is prescribed at the first manifestations of herpes on the skin and mucous membranes. The drug has proven itself in the treatment of herpes, which often recurs in patients with reduced immunity.
Erazaban
Bausch & Lomb, Germany
Infections of the skin and mucous membranes caused by the Herpes simplex virus type 1, including herpes labialis.
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Side effects and interactions
Oksolin is well tolerated when used by children and adults. Negative reactions are extremely rare. In the first days of applying the drug, there may be a slight burning sensation of the mucous membranes and skin, a short-term increase in nasal discharge, decreased visual acuity, and increased lacrimation. In most cases, the discomfort gradually disappears on its own. Sometimes the ointment causes a bluish coating to appear, which is easily washed off with water.
When used together, oxolinic ointment and intranasal vasoconstrictor drops are likely to increase dryness of the mucous membranes. The problem can be solved by additional use of moisturizers.
Treatment and prevention of diseases with ointment does not cause disturbances in the speed of psychomotor reactions, concentration of attention, and does not affect the emotional state of patients. Using the drug does not require giving up work with high mental stress or driving.
Herperax
This herpes ointment for external use is also not absorbed into the blood and does not have a systemic effect on the body. The active ingredient in Herperax ointment is acyclovir, which successfully fights the herpes simplex virus. The product affects only those cells that are affected by herpes. "Herperax" is a very effective drug, therefore it is often prescribed by doctors. It is noteworthy that this ointment for herpes can be used in children from birth.
Herperax
Micro Labs Limited, India
Herperax is an antiviral drug whose active substance is acyclovir.
Thymidine kinase in virus-infected cells actively converts acyclovir through a series of sequential reactions into acyclovir mono-, di- and triphosphate. The latter interacts with viral DNA polymerase and is integrated into the DNA that is synthesized for new viruses. Thus, defective viral DNA is formed, which leads to suppression of the replication of new generations of viruses. Acyclovir is active against Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, Varicella zoster virus, Epstein-Bar virus and cytomegalovirus. from 51
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Alpizarin
Anti-herpes ointment for external use has virtually no side effects and is not addictive. "Alpizarin" is prescribed to children from 1 year old, because it is non-toxic. In addition to herpes, this ointment is effective against cytomegalovirus and paramyxoviruses. “Alpizarin” not only inhibits the virus itself, but also stimulates the production of interferon gamma in the body, thus increasing the resistance of the immune system to viral diseases. Thanks to this complex action, Alpizarin is prescribed to adults and children not only for herpes, but also for any viral diseases of the skin and mucous membranes, as well as for herpes zoster.