What ointment should be used for herpes at the corner of the mouth?

Aug 28, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, herpes around the mouth is mostly caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus. Common symptoms include clustered blisters at the corner of the mouth, local itching, pain, and a burning sensation. Patients may use medications such as acyclovir cream, penciclovir cream, mupirocin ointment, erythromycin ointment, and recombinant human interferon α-2b gel according to medical advice.

    Under normal circumstances, lip corner herpes is mostly caused by herpes simplex virus infection. Common symptoms include clustered blisters at the corner of the lips, local itching, pain, and burning sensation. Patients may use acyclovir cream, penciclovir cream, mupirocin ointment, erythromycin ointment, and recombinant human interferon α2a cream under medical guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

    1. Acyclovir Cream

    Acyclovir cream is a nucleoside antiviral ointment that inhibits the DNA polymerase of the herpes simplex virus, preventing viral DNA synthesis and thereby inhibiting viral replication. Applied directly to the affected area, it can shorten the course of the disease, alleviate symptoms such as blisters and pain, and is suitable for the acute phase of lip herpes.

    2. Penciclovir Cream

    Penciclovir cream is also an antiviral ointment with strong inhibitory effects on the herpes simplex virus, acting by interfering with viral DNA synthesis. Compared to acyclovir cream, it has a longer-lasting effect and is suitable for initial or recurrent episodes of lip herpes, relieving local discomfort.

    3. Mupirocin Ointment

    Mupirocin ointment is a topical antibiotic ointment effective for skin infections caused by Gram-positive cocci. After lip herpes blisters rupture, secondary bacterial infections can easily occur. Using this ointment can prevent or treat secondary infections and promote wound healing.

    4. Erythromycin Ointment

    Erythromycin ointment belongs to the macrolide class of antibiotic ointments and has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. It is suitable for cases of lip herpes complicated by bacterial infection, helping to inhibit bacterial growth, reduce redness, swelling, and pus formation caused by infection, and aid in the recovery of damaged skin.

    5. Recombinant Human Interferon α2a Cream

    Recombinant human interferon α2a cream has broad-spectrum antiviral properties and modulates immune function. By enhancing local skin immunity and inhibiting viral replication, it is suitable for the treatment and prevention of recurrence of lip herpes, especially for individuals with low immunity.

    In daily life, it is important to develop good habits, avoid scratching the affected area with hands, keep the corner of the lips clean and dry, and avoid eating spicy or irritating foods such as chili peppers, ginger, and garlic to prevent worsening of discomfort.

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