What ointments are available for treating herpes?
Jan 24, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Introduction
In general, topical ointments used to treat herpes include acyclovir cream, hydrocortisone ointment, desonide cream, tacrolimus ointment, and penciclovir cream. It is recommended to seek medical evaluation and then select and use medications according to the doctor's advice. In daily life, patients with herpes should maintain a light diet and avoid scratching the affected area with hands, which can help promote recovery.
Generally, topical ointments used to treat herpes include acyclovir cream, hydrocortisone ointment, desonide cream, tacrolimus ointment, and penciclovir cream. It is recommended to seek medical evaluation and then select and use medications according to a doctor's advice. The details are as follows:
1. Acyclovir Cream
Acyclovir cream is an antiviral medication that inhibits viral replication and spread, helping to relieve symptoms and accelerate healing. It is commonly used to treat cold sores (herpes simplex) and shingles (herpes zoster).
2. Hydrocortisone Ointment
Hydrocortisone ointment is a corticosteroid typically used to reduce skin inflammation, redness, swelling, and itching. For certain skin conditions, including herpes, it may help alleviate symptoms.
3. Desonide Cream
Desonide cream is a corticosteroid medication suitable for various skin disorders responsive to corticosteroid treatment, such as neurodermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and dyshidrotic eczema (pompholyx).
4. Tacrolimus Ointment
Tacrolimus ointment is an immunosuppressive drug commonly used to treat specific inflammatory skin conditions. By suppressing the activity of certain immune cells, it helps reduce skin inflammation.
5. Penciclovir Cream
Penciclovir cream is also an antiviral agent used to treat oral and genital herpes. By inhibiting viral DNA synthesis, penciclovir cream helps reduce herpes-related symptoms, shorten the duration of outbreaks, and alleviate pain.
In daily life, individuals with herpes should maintain a light diet and avoid scratching the affected area, which can aid recovery.
