Prescription requiredAntiviral

Acivir Cream — Uses, Dosage & Benefits

Acivir Cream is used for Treatment of herpes simplex virus (HSV) skin infections such as herpes labialis (cold sores) and genital herpes lesions; helps reduce pain, itching and duration of outbreaks when started early..

Medically reviewed by Dr. Balaji Krishnan, MBBS · Updated August 2026

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Active Ingredient / Composition

Acyclovir 5% w/w cream

What is Acivir Cream used for?

Treatment of herpes simplex virus (HSV) skin infections such as herpes labialis (cold sores) and genital herpes lesions; helps reduce pain
itching and duration of outbreaks when started early.

How Acivir Cream Works

Acyclovir is an antiviral that is converted within virus-infected cells to an active form that inhibits viral DNA polymerase. This stops replication of herpes virus DNA and limits spread of infection, allowing lesions to heal faster.

Dosage & Directions

For external use only. Apply a thin layer to the affected area (and surrounding skin) as soon as symptoms start, usually 5 times daily (about every 4 hours while awake) for up to 4–5 days or as advised by a doctor. Wash hands before and after application; do not apply inside eyes, mouth or vagina.

Always follow your doctor's prescription. Do not self-medicate.

Key Benefits

Helps heal cold sores and herpes skin lesions faster
Reduces pain and itching during outbreaks
Limits viral replication when used early
Decreases duration of symptoms

Pregnancy

Consult doctor (topical acyclovir has minimal absorption; generally considered low risk when used as directed).

Alcohol Interaction

No known interaction

Acivir Cream — Quick Facts

Composition: Acyclovir 5% w/w cream
Therapeutic class: Antiviral
Drug class: Antiviral (nucleoside analogue; HSV DNA polymerase inhibitor)
Prescription: Required (Rx)
Price: ₹183
Habit forming: No
Storage: Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Protect from heat and light. Keep cap tightly closed and out of reach of children.

Acivir Cream — Usage FAQs

How should I take this medicine?

Follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Do not alter the dose without medical advice.

Can I take this medicine without a prescription?

Prescription-required medicines need a valid Rx. OTC medicines can be purchased directly.

What if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is close to your next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose.

How long does it take to show effect?

The time to show effect varies by medicine and condition. Consult your doctor for specific timelines.

Acivir Cream — Uses, Dosage & Benefits

Active Ingredient / Composition

What is Acivir Cream used for?

How Acivir Cream Works

Dosage & Directions

Key Benefits

Pregnancy

Alcohol Interaction

Acivir Cream — Quick Facts

Acivir Cream — Usage FAQs

More from PingMeDoc™

Safety disclaimer

Acivir Cream — Uses, Dosage & Benefits

Active Ingredient / Composition

What is Acivir Cream used for?

How Acivir Cream Works

Dosage & Directions

Key Benefits

Pregnancy

Alcohol Interaction

Acivir Cream — Quick Facts

Acivir Cream — Usage FAQs

More from PingMeDoc™

Safety disclaimer