Xerese Cream

Generic name:acyclovir and hydrocortisone
Dosage form: cream
Drug class:Topical steroids with anti-infectives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 21, 2022.

Indications and Usage for Xerese Cream

XERESE, a combination of acyclovir, a herpes simplex virus nucleoside analog DNA polymerase inhibitor, and hydrocortisone, a corticosteroid, is indicated for the early treatment of recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores) to reduce the likelihood of ulcerative cold sores and to shorten the lesion healing time in adults and children (6 years of age and older).

Xerese Cream Dosage and Administration

Topically apply XERESE 5 times per day for 5 days. Therapy should be initiated as early as possible after the first signs and symptoms (i.e., during the prodrome or when lesions appear).

For each dose, topically apply a quantity of XERESE sufficient to cover the affected area, including the outer margin. Avoid unnecessary rubbing of the affected area to avoid aggravating or transferring the infection. For children 6 years of age and older, the dosage is the same as in adults.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Each gram of XERESE contains 5% (w/w) acyclovir and 1% (w/w) hydrocortisone in an aqueous cream base.

Contraindications

None.

Warnings and Precautions

General

XERESE is intended for cutaneous use only for herpes labialis of the lips and around the mouth. XERESE should not be used in the eye, inside the mouth or nose, or on the genitals.

There are other orofacial lesions, including bacterial and fungal infections, which may be difficult to distinguish from a cold sore. Patients should be encouraged to seek medical advice when a cold sore fails to heal within 2 weeks.

XERESE has a potential for irritation and contact sensitization [see