Lafrost cream is indicated for the treatment of acute episodes of recurrent oral-facial herpes simplex (fever blisters or cold sores) in adults. Lafrost shortens healing time and the duration of cold sore symptoms including pain, burning, tingling and itching. Lafrost soothes on contact.
The predominant mechanism for the anti-HSV activity of docosanol appears to be inhibition of fusion between the plasma membrane and the HSV envelope. This blocks viral entry into the cell and subsequent viral replication. This mechanism of action explains the effectiveness of docosanol against all tested lipid-enveloped viruses that employ fusion as the sole or major means of entry into the cell. This is in contrast to the mode of action of currently available antiviral agents that target a single viral protein.
Wash your hands and then apply the required amount of Docosanol to the tip of your finger or cotton swab. Docosanol should then be rubbed in gently, but completely, into the area around your cold sore. Repeat this 5 times per day until the lesion is healed, up to a maximum of 10 days. Begin treating at the first symptoms or signs of an episode (itching, burning, tingling or redness), because early treatment is important for best results.
In clinical trials for the treatment of cold sores, side effects were generally mild and occurred with the same frequency in patients treated with non-medicated cream (placebo). The most frequently reported adverse event was headache. Local adverse effects included a reaction at the site of application, rash, itching, dry skin and acne. Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor if you experience an allergic reaction (e.g. rash, itchy skin).
Always consult a registered doctor before taking any medicine. This information is for general knowledge only.
Docosanol cream is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to docosanol or any of the components in this formulation.
Lafrost should only be used to treat cold sores on the lips and face. Ophthalmic, penile, and vaginal irritation studies in rabbits demonstrate minimal irritation when Lafrost is placed on these tissues. Care should be taken to avoid application in or near the eyes since it may cause irritation; if contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. If excessive skin irritation develops or increases, discontinue use and consult a doctor. It should not be taken orally. Lafrost must not be applied directly inside the mouth. The product must not be shared with anyone as this may spread infection. If the cold sore gets worse or is not healed within 10 days, a doctor should be consulted. Lafrost should be kept out of the reach of children.