Acylex (5%) Ointment
Acylex (5%) Ointment contains Acyclovir, a potent antiviral medication used topically to treat viral skin infections caused by the Herpes simplex virus (HSV), such as cold sores (herpes labialis), genital herpes, and shingles (herpes zoster).
It works by stopping the virus from multiplying and spreading in the skin, reducing the duration, severity, and recurrence of outbreaks. When used at the first sign of infection, Acylex helps relieve pain, itching, burning, and blistering while promoting faster healing.
Ingredients
Active Ingredient: Acyclovir 5% w/w
Inactive Ingredients:
- White Soft Paraffin
- Liquid Paraffin
- Propylene Glycol
- Emulsifying Wax
- Purified Water
Drug Class
Pharmacological Class: Antiviral (Nucleoside Analog)
Therapeutic Class: Dermatological / Anti-infective
Dosage Form
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Form: Ointment
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Strength: 5% (Acyclovir 50mg per gram)
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Pack Size: 5g Tube
Uses
- Cold sores (Herpes labialis)
- Genital herpes
- Shingles (Herpes zoster)
- Chickenpox lesions (Varicella)
- Recurrent herpes infections on the lips, face, or genital area
Dosage
- Apply a thin layer of Acylex Ointment to the affected area 5 times daily (approximately every 4 hours) for 5 to 10 days or as directed by your doctor.
- Begin application as soon as symptoms appear (e.g., tingling, itching, burning).
⚠️ For best results, start early at the first sign of infection.
In Case of Overdose
- Over-application may cause skin irritation or dryness, but serious effects are unlikely.
- If accidentally swallowed, seek immediate medical attention.
Missed Dose
- Apply the missed dose as soon as remembered.
- If it’s close to the next dose, skip the missed one.
- Do not apply extra to make up for a missed dose.
How To Use
- Wash hands thoroughly before and after application.
- Clean and dry the affected skin area gently.
- Apply a small amount of Acylex Ointment on the lesion and surrounding skin.
- Rub in gently until absorbed.
- Do not cover with bandages unless directed by your doctor.
- Avoid touching or scratching the sores to prevent spreading.
When Not to Use
- Allergic to Acyclovir, Valacyclovir, or any ingredient in the formulation.
- Severe kidney disease without medical supervision.
- Using other topical antiviral creams on the same area.
- Open wounds or bacterial skin infections (unless prescribed by a doctor).
Side Effects
Common:
- Mild burning or stinging sensation
- Itching or redness at the application site
- Dry or flaky skin
Rare but serious:
- Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
- Localized skin irritation or contact dermatitis
⚠️ If severe irritation or allergic symptoms occur, stop use and consult your doctor.
Precautions & Warnings
- For external use only.
- Avoid contact with eyes, inside of the mouth, or mucous membranes.
- Apply only on affected areas of skin.
- Wash hands before and after use to prevent spreading the infection.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
- This ointment does not cure herpes but helps control symptoms and reduce recurrence.
Drug Interactions
- Generally minimal when applied topically.
- Use with caution if you are also taking systemic Acyclovir or other antivirals.
- Inform your doctor about all other creams or medications being used on the same area.
Storage/Disposal
- Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place.
- Keep the tube tightly closed after use.
- Do not freeze.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Discard any leftover ointment after the expiry date or 3 months after opening.
Control Drug
- Prescription-only medication (Rx)
- Not a controlled substance
Quick Tips
💡 Helpful Advice for Best Results:
- Start applying Acylex Ointment at the first sign of symptoms (tingling or itching).
- Avoid kissing or sharing utensils while cold sores are active.
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent spreading the virus.
- Continue treatment for the full course, even if symptoms improve early.
- Keep your lips and skin moisturized to prevent cracking.
