Acyclovir-Penciclovir Cream vs Abreva for Cold Sores

This trial tests two creams: a new acyclovir-penciclovir cream and an active comparator, Abreva, to determine which is more effective for treating cold sores. It focuses on individuals who have experienced cold sores triggered by sun exposure for at least a year and can recall where their sores typically appear. Participants will maintain a diary to track pain and symptoms over a 10-day period. This trial may suit those who have had HSV-1 breakouts from UV exposure and notice warning signs before an outbreak. As a Phase 2 trial, the research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.

The trial requires that you stop taking any antiviral medications, steroids, immune suppressants, chemotherapeutic agents, and certain pain relievers like NSAIDs before and during the study. If you are on these medications, you may need to stop them to participate.

Research has shown that acyclovir and penciclovir creams effectively treat cold sores and are generally well-tolerated. Studies found that penciclovir cream speeds up healing and reduces pain more quickly than using no cream. Acyclovir often prevents cold sores from returning after triggers like sunlight exposure.

Unlike most treatments for cold sores, which typically rely on single antiviral agents like acyclovir or penciclovir, the acyclovir-penciclovir cream combines both active ingredients. This dual-action formula targets the herpes simplex virus more effectively by using two mechanisms, potentially enhancing the cream's ability to reduce outbreak duration and severity. Researchers are excited because this combination could provide faster relief and improved efficacy compared to standard options like Abreva, which only contains docosanol.

Research has shown that acyclovir-penciclovir cream, which participants in this trial may receive, can effectively treat cold sores, also known as herpes labialis. Studies have found that penciclovir cream speeds up the healing of cold sores by about 13% and reduces pain by 15%. One study discovered that penciclovir clears up typical sores 31% faster than if left untreated. These findings suggest that acyclovir-penciclovir cream may help cold sores heal quicker and become less painful. Meanwhile, another group in this trial will use Abreva, an active comparator, to treat cold sores.¹³⁶⁷⁸