Penciclovir

Penciclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat herpes simplex virus infections. It is a guanosine analogue and a nucleoside analogue. It is primarily used in the treatment of herpes labialis (cold sores) and herpes zoster (shingles).

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Penciclovir works by inhibiting the replication of the herpes simplex virus. It is converted into a triphosphate form in the infected cells which inhibits the viral DNA polymerase, thereby preventing the virus from multiplying.

Pharmacokinetics[edit | edit source]

After topical application, penciclovir is absorbed into the skin where it is converted into its active form. It has a half-life of 2 hours and is excreted in the urine.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of penciclovir include nausea, headache, and rash. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as anaphylaxis and angioedema.

Interactions[edit | edit source]

Penciclovir can interact with other antiviral medications such as acyclovir and ganciclovir. It can also interact with probenecid, a medication used to treat gout.

Contraindications[edit | edit source]

Penciclovir is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to penciclovir or any of its components.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Penciclovir Resources
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