Description:

Aciclovir Denk Cream 5% is a topical antiviral cream containing aciclovir (acyclovir), used primarily to treat herpes simplex virus infections of the skin and mucous membranes. It is effective against cold sores (herpes labialis/fever blisters on the lips/face), genital herpes (initial outbreaks or recurrent episodes), and certain sores caused by herpes simplex in immunocompromised individuals. The cream inhibits viral DNA replication, reducing the duration and severity of outbreaks, healing time, and symptom intensity (e.g., pain, itching, blistering) when applied early. In Ghana (Accra), it is a common, affordable prescription topical available in pharmacies (e.g., Scab Pharmacy, Country Medical Pharmacy, Meldinpharma) for cold sores and genital herpes management.

Prescription:

Prescription-only in most regions, including Ghana (requires a doctor’s prescription, typically from a dermatologist, GP, or sexual health specialist for diagnosis and dispensing; not freely OTC to ensure appropriate use and rule out other conditions).

Therapeutic Category:

Topical Antiviral Agent (Nucleoside analogue antiviral for herpes simplex virus infections.

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Active ingredient: Aciclovir (acyclovir) 5% w/w (50 mg per gram of cream). Other ingredients (excipients, typical): Cetostearyl alcohol, mineral oil/polysorbate 60, propylene glycol, white petrolatum/soft paraffin, purified water, and preservatives (e.g., chlorocresol or parabens in some formulations). The cream is smooth, white to off-white, and non-greasy.

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant:

• Aciclovir Denk Cream 5% (standard 5% strength; common tube sizes 5g or 7g in Ghana listings, though 10g or 15g in some markets). Related variants: Aciclovir Denk ointment (different base for drier skin), oral aciclovir tablets (for systemic herpes), or higher/lower concentrations (rare). The queried cream is the topical 5% version.

Consume Type:

Topical – Cream (applied externally to affected skin/mucous membranes; not for oral, ophthalmic, or internal use; rub gently in a thin layer).

Directions/Usage:

Apply a thin layer to the affected area (covering lesions and surrounding skin) 5 times daily (every 4 hours while awake, e.g., 7am, 11am, 3pm, 7pm, 11pm) for 4–5 days (or up to 10 days as prescribed).

• Start as early as possible at the first sign of symptoms (tingling, redness, itching, or bump) for best results.
• Wash hands before/after application; avoid touching eyes or mouth.
• For genital herpes: Apply externally to lesions; do not use internally.
• Continue for full duration even if symptoms improve.
• Do not use occlusive dressings unless advised.

Common Side Effects: Common (mild/transient):

• Transient burning, stinging, itching, or tingling at application site.
• Dryness, flaking, cracking, or peeling of skin/lips.
• Erythema (redness) or mild irritation. Rare: Allergic contact dermatitis (rash/swelling—discontinue), or worsening symptoms. No systemic effects expected with topical use.

Package Type:

Aluminium tube of 5g, 7g, or 10g cream (screw cap; often in a carton with patient information leaflet and usage instructions printed on tube).

Storage Advice:

Store at room temperature (below 25–30°C) in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep tightly closed. Do not freeze. Out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• For external use only; avoid eyes, mouth, mucous membranes (unless prescribed for oral lesions), or large areas/long-term use (risk of irritation/resistance).
• Contraindicated if allergic to aciclovir/valaciclovir or excipients.
• Caution in pregnancy/breastfeeding (generally safe topically but consult doctor), children (use under guidance), or immunocompromised patients (may need systemic therapy).
• If no improvement after 7–10 days, worsening lesions, or new symptoms (e.g., severe pain, pus, fever), seek medical care (possible resistant strain or secondary infection).
• Do not use for other skin conditions without diagnosis.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Product Substitutes: Similar aciclovir 5% creams available in Ghana include:

• Generic aciclovir 5% cream (various importers).
• Zovirax Cream (original brand by GSK, higher price if stocked).
• Other brands like Aciclovir Denk 5% (similar Denk Pharma product). Alternatives: Penciclovir cream (Fenistil Pencivir), idoxuridine, or oral aciclovir/valaciclovir for severe/recurrent herpes (consult doctor).

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Denk Pharma GmbH & Co. KG (Germany; produces Aciclovir Denk series). Marketed/distributed in Ghana by local importers/pharmacies (e.g., Scab Pharmacy, Country Medical Pharmacy, Meldinpharma).

Country of Origin:

Germany (manufactured by Denk Pharma; imported to Ghana and widely available in local pharmacies).