Table 1.

Antiviral drugs for herpes simplex virus

Systemic use drugs
Generic name (brand name)	*Suggested dosage × duration (days)
Acyclovir (Zovirax)	400 mg tid × 7
Famciclovir (Famvir)	125 mg bid × 5
Valacyclovir (Valtrex)	500 mg bid × 5
Topical use drugs
Generic name (brand name)	*Suggested dosage × duration
Penciclovir (Denavir) cream 1%	Every 2 hours
Acyclovir (Zovirax) cream 5%	Every 2 hours
Docosonol cream, 10% (Abreva†)	Every 3 hours
IPA Tincture of BZK, 0.13% & 5% Benzocaine†
(Viroxyn Solution)	Single application

^*Variations in dosage and time are adjusted for clinical severity.

Essentials of oral medicine (2001) Silverman S, Eversole L, & Truelove E, BC Decker, Hamilton, ON. Tables 13-2, p. 122. Reprinted with permission.

^†These items were added to the table to improve consistency by providing a generic and brand name descriptions for all drugs listed.