Name
Vectavir 1% cream
Penciclovir
What is it and what is it for?
Vectavir contains the active substance penciclovir, which belongs to the group of medicines called antivirals.
Vectavir works by killing the viruses that cause herpes.
Vectavir is indicated for the treatment of cold sores (herpes labialis), an infectious disease caused by the herpes simplex virus characterized by blisters on the lips filled with a clear fluid.
What you need to know before taking the medicine
Do not use Vectavir
• if you are allergic to penciclovir, famciclovir or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6);
• if the patient is a child under 12 years of age.
Warnings and precautions
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using Vectavir.
Consult your doctor before using Vectavir:
• if you are pregnant or breastfeeding (see section "Pregnancy and breastfeeding");
• if your immune system is very weak, for example if you are an AIDS patient or have had a bone marrow transplant. Your doctor will decide whether oral treatment is more appropriate.
Take special care when using Vectavir:
• apply the cream exclusively to lesions on the lips and around the mouth;
• do not apply the cream to mucous membranes such as the eyes, mouth, nose or genitals;
• do not apply the cream on or near your eyes.
Children and adolescents
Vectavir should not be used in children under 12 years of age.
Possible side effects
Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.
Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people)
• reactions in the application area, including:
- burning sensation on the skin
- skin pain
- decreased skin sensitivity.
These effects are generally transient.
Side effects with unknown frequency (frequency cannot be estimated from the available data)
• allergic reactions such as hypersensitivity and hives
• skin reactions such as allergic skin inflammation (allergic dermatitis), including the appearance of red spots on the skin (rash), itching, blisters and swelling due to fluid accumulation (edema).
Following the instructions in the package leaflet reduces the risk of side effects.
Reporting of side effects
If you experience any side effects, including any not listed in this leaflet, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. You can also report side effects directly via the national reporting system at: https://www.aifa.gov.it/content/segnalazionireazioni-avverse .
By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.