Virux-HC
Generic Name
Acyclovir + Hydrocortisone
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| virux hc 5 1 cream | ৳ 70.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Virux-HC Cream is a combination medicine containing Acyclovir (an antiviral) and Hydrocortisone (a corticosteroid). It is used for the early treatment of recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores) to reduce healing time and prevent progression of lesions to ulcerative stages.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Apply to the affected area 5 times a day, at approximately 3-4 hour intervals, for 5 days. Treatment should be initiated as early as possible after the first signs or symptoms of a cold sore appear.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is required for elderly patients.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is required for patients with renal impairment with topical use.
How to Take
For topical use only. Wash hands before and after application. Apply a small amount of cream to the affected area, including the outer edges of the cold sore. Do not apply to mucous membranes (e.g., inside the mouth or vagina).
Mechanism of Action
Acyclovir acts by inhibiting viral DNA synthesis and replication. It is phosphorylated intracellularly to its active triphosphate form, which competitively inhibits viral DNA polymerase and is incorporated into viral DNA, leading to chain termination. Hydrocortisone is a low-potency corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and swelling associated with cold sores.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Relief of symptoms and reduction in lesion progression may be observed within hours to days, with full therapeutic effect over several days.
Excretion
Primarily excreted renally if systemically absorbed, but negligible for topical use.
Half life
Systemic half-life is not clinically relevant for topical use due to minimal absorption.
Absorption
Minimal systemic absorption after topical application. Acyclovir absorption is typically less than 0.5% and hydrocortisone absorption is also low, though it can vary based on skin integrity.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver if systemically absorbed, but negligible for topical use.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Acyclovir, Valacyclovir, Hydrocortisone, or any excipients of the cream.
- Do not use on genital herpes or cold sores inside the mouth.
Drug Interactions
Immunosuppressants
Local immunosuppression from hydrocortisone is minimal, but caution with other immunosuppressive drugs if there is extensive or prolonged use.
Systemic Acyclovir
Topical application results in minimal systemic absorption, so clinically significant drug interactions are unlikely. However, if used concomitantly with systemic acyclovir, the potential for additive effects and toxicity should be considered (though unlikely at topical doses).
Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose from topical application is unlikely due to minimal systemic absorption. If accidentally ingested, symptomatic and supportive measures should be taken.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Limited data on use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Acyclovir is generally considered low risk (Category B). Topical hydrocortisone has minimal systemic absorption. Use only if clearly needed and the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. Consult a doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Acyclovir, Valacyclovir, Hydrocortisone, or any excipients of the cream.
- Do not use on genital herpes or cold sores inside the mouth.
Drug Interactions
Immunosuppressants
Local immunosuppression from hydrocortisone is minimal, but caution with other immunosuppressive drugs if there is extensive or prolonged use.
Systemic Acyclovir
Topical application results in minimal systemic absorption, so clinically significant drug interactions are unlikely. However, if used concomitantly with systemic acyclovir, the potential for additive effects and toxicity should be considered (though unlikely at topical doses).
Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose from topical application is unlikely due to minimal systemic absorption. If accidentally ingested, symptomatic and supportive measures should be taken.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Limited data on use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Acyclovir is generally considered low risk (Category B). Topical hydrocortisone has minimal systemic absorption. Use only if clearly needed and the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. Consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months
Availability
Available in pharmacies and drug stores nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Off-patent
Clinical Trials
This combination has undergone clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in reducing cold sore healing time and preventing lesion progression compared to acyclovir monotherapy or placebo.
Lab Monitoring
- No routine laboratory monitoring is typically required for topical use.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize early initiation of treatment for optimal efficacy.
- Advise patients on proper application technique and hygiene.
- Consider alternative diagnoses if lesions do not improve or worsen.
Patient Guidelines
- Start treatment at the first sign of a cold sore.
- Wash hands thoroughly before and after applying the cream.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.
- Avoid touching the cold sore after application to prevent spread.
- Do not apply on mucous membranes.
- If symptoms persist for more than 10 days, consult a doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as you remember. Then continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Virux-HC Cream is not expected to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Identify and avoid cold sore triggers (e.g., stress, sunlight, fever).
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent spreading the virus.
- Avoid sharing eating utensils, towels, or razors if you have a cold sore.
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