USES: This medication is used to treat cold sores around the mouth (caused by herpes virus) that keep coming back. Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. However, it is not a cure for the infection. The virus that causes infection continues to live in the body between outbreaks. Acyclovir makes outbreaks shorter and less severe. It helps the sores heal faster, keeps new sores from forming, and decreases pain/itching. This medication may also help reduce how long pain lasts after the sores heal.

How to use ACYCLOVIR TABLET - BUCCAL

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using acyclovir buccal tablets and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Apply one tablet within one hour after you have the first symptom of a cold sore, and before a cold sore appears. Symptoms may include itching, redness, burning, or tingling. Apply the tablet on the same side of your mouth as the cold sore symptoms. Before applying the tablet, find the area in your mouth in which to place the tablet. It should be placed on the upper gum, just above the left or right incisor tooth. The incisors are the teeth just to the left and right of your two front teeth. With dry hands, remove one tablet from the blister pack and place it in your mouth with the round side facing against your gum and gently push it into place. Remove your hand from inside your mouth and gently press your finger on the outside of your upper lip for 30 seconds. This will make the tablet stick to your gum. The tablet will slowly dissolve over time and should be left in place. You may eat and drink while using this medication. Do not crush, chew, suck, or swallow the tablet. If the tablet does not stick to your upper gum or falls off within the first 6 hours after you apply it, the same tablet should be placed back onto your upper gum right away. If it still does not stay in place, apply another acyclovir tablet to your upper gum. If you accidentally swallow the tablet within the first 6 hours after placement, drink a glass of water and apply a new dose to your gum. However, if the tablet has been in place 6 hours or longer and it falls out or you swallow it, do not re-apply the tablet. Avoid doing things that may keep the buccal tablet from sticking to your gum, including touching or pressing the tablet after placement, wearing an upper denture that interferes with tablet placement, chewing gum, and brushing your teeth while the tablet is in place. You may gently rinse your mouth with water to clean your teeth while the tablet is in place. Drink plenty of liquids if you have dry mouth. This medication works best when started at the first sign of a cold sore, as directed by your doctor. It may not work as well if you delay treatment. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.