Clinical decision-support only. For use by licensed dental professionals. Not a substitute for professional judgment or a complete drug reference. Always verify with primary sources.
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Medication

Acyclovir

Antiviral (nucleoside analog)

Brand names: Zovirax

Oral health effects

  • Treatment of herpes (HSV) lesions (therapeutic)

    Used for primary herpetic gingivostomatitis and recurrent herpes labialis; most effective started early.

    Clinical management: Initiate at prodrome for recurrences; maintain hydration; supportive care for painful primary infection.

Sources

  1. A review and guide to drug-associated oral adverse effects-Oral mucosal and lichenoid reactions. Part 2. Teoh L, Moses G, McCullough MJ. Journal of oral pathology & medicine : official publication of the International Association of Oral Pathologists and the American Academy of Oral Pathology, 2019.