Why is this medication prescribed?

Acyclovir Buccal is prescribed to treat cold sores (herpes labialis) caused by the herpes simplex virus. The buccal form of acyclovir is a tablet that adheres to the gum, allowing the medication to be delivered directly to the site of infection. This localized treatment helps reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, such as pain, itching, and blister formation.

The benefits of using Acyclovir Buccal include:

• Targeted Delivery: The medication is concentrated where it is needed most.
• Convenience: The tablet stays in place, releasing medication slowly over time.
• Reduced Side Effects: Less systemic absorption means fewer side effects compared to oral forms.

It’s typically prescribed at the first sign of a cold sore, such as tingling or itching, to prevent the sore from fully developing.

How should this medicine be used?

Acyclovir Buccal (often branded as Sitavig) should be used as follows:

• Apply at the First Sign of a Cold Sore: Use the tablet when you first notice symptoms like tingling, itching, or redness, which are early signs of a cold sore.
• Preparation: Wash your hands before handling the tablet.
• Applying the Tablet:
  • Identify the area on your upper gum, just above your canine tooth, where the cold sore is likely to develop.
  • Place the flat side of the buccal tablet against your upper gum.
  • Hold the tablet in place with slight pressure on your lip for about 30 seconds to ensure it sticks.
• Leave the Tablet in Place: The tablet will slowly dissolve over time, releasing the medication. It usually takes 6 hours to fully dissolve. Avoid touching or moving the tablet with your tongue or fingers. Do not chew, crush, or swallow the tablet.
• Continue with Normal Activities: You can eat and drink while the tablet is in place, but avoid activities that could dislodge the tablet, such as chewing gum or brushing your teeth vigorously.
• Tablet Dislodgement: If the tablet falls off within the first 6 hours, you can replace it with a new one. If it falls off after 6 hours, you don’t need to replace it.
• Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands again after applying the tablet.

This medication is generally a single-use treatment, so only one buccal tablet is needed per outbreak.

Other uses for this medicine

Acyclovir Buccal is primarily approved for treating cold sores (herpes labialis). Its use for other conditions is not common, but in some cases, healthcare providers might consider it for other types of herpes simplex infections, particularly if a localized treatment is beneficial. However, such use would be off-label and not standard practice.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Acyclovir Buccal, you should follow these precautions:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have a history of allergies to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any other medications. Disclose any allergies to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals.
• Medical History: Let your doctor know if you have a history of weakened immune function, such as HIV/AIDS or cancer treatment. Inform your healthcare provider of any kidney problems, as acyclovir can affect kidney function.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. While acyclovir is generally considered safe during pregnancy, your doctor will weigh the benefits against potential risks.
• Drug Interactions: List all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as acyclovir can interact with other drugs, particularly those affecting kidney function. Avoid taking medications that might worsen kidney function, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), unless advised by your doctor.
• Oral Health: Avoid activities that could dislodge the tablet, such as brushing your teeth immediately after application, chewing gum, or eating hard or sticky foods. Maintain good oral hygiene but be gentle around the area where the tablet is applied.
• Handling the Tablet: Do not swallow, chew, crush, or suck on the tablet. Ensure the tablet is properly placed on the gum to avoid swallowing it or having it dislodge.
• Missed Dose: Since Acyclovir Buccal is usually a single-dose treatment, missing a dose is not typical. If the tablet falls off before 6 hours have passed, you may apply a new one. If it falls off after 6 hours, do not reapply.
• Side Effects: Common side effects include mild pain, irritation, or a burning sensation at the application site. If you experience severe allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a severe rash, seek immediate medical attention.

By following these precautions, you can minimize the risk of side effects and maximize the effectiveness of Acyclovir Buccal in treating your cold sores.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Acyclovir Buccal. However, to prevent dislodging the tablet, you might want to avoid:

• Sticky Foods: Such as caramel or chewing gum, which could stick to the tablet and pull it off.
• Hard Foods: Like nuts or hard candy, which might disturb the tablet if you chew near the application site.
• Hot Drinks: Extremely hot beverages might affect the adhesion of the tablet, so it’s better to let them cool slightly before drinking.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Acyclovir Buccal is typically a single-dose treatment applied at the first sign of a cold sore. If the tablet falls off within the first 6 hours, you can replace it with a new one.

• If the tablet falls off before 6 hours: Apply a new one as soon as possible.
• If the tablet falls off after 6 hours: Do not replace it, as enough of the medication has already been absorbed.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Acyclovir Buccal may cause some side effects, though not everyone experiences them. Common and less severe side effects include:

• Mild Pain or Irritation: You might feel some discomfort or irritation at the site where the tablet is applied.
• Burning Sensation: A temporary burning sensation at the application site is possible.
• Tingling: Some people may experience tingling or numbness in the area where the tablet is placed.
• Dry Mouth: A feeling of dryness in the mouth is another potential side effect.

Less common but more serious side effects include:

• Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms like difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, rash, or itching.
• Severe Pain or Irritation: Intense pain or severe irritation at the application site.
• Signs of Infection: Increased redness, swelling, or discharge around the application site, which could indicate an infection.

If you experience any of these severe or persistent symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. For most people, the mild side effects are manageable and temporary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Acyclovir Buccal:

Storage:

• Keep at Room Temperature: Store Acyclovir Buccal at room temperature, typically between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
• Protect from Moisture and Heat: Keep the medication in its original packaging to protect it from moisture and heat.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Ensure the medication is stored in a place where children cannot access it.

Disposal:

• Do Not Flush: Do not flush Acyclovir Buccal down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless specifically instructed to do so by a disposal program or label instructions.
• Medication Take-Back Programs: If the medication is expired or no longer needed, use a drug take-back program or follow local regulations for disposal. Many pharmacies and community programs offer safe disposal options.
• Household Disposal: If no take-back program is available, you can dispose of the medication in your household trash, but first, mix it with an undesirable substance (like used coffee grounds or cat litter) to make it less appealing to children and pets, then place it in a sealed plastic bag or container.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: In the event of an overdose, which is unlikely with a buccal tablet but could occur if multiple tablets are swallowed or misused, seek emergency medical help immediately.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms may include confusion, severe nausea, vomiting, or unusual tiredness. Contact poison control or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Contact Emergency Services: If you experience severe side effects or an allergic reaction (such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face or throat), seek immediate medical attention or call emergency services.

What other information should I know?

• Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Always discuss any concerns or questions about your medication with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and address any issues related to the use of Acyclovir Buccal.
• Follow Instructions Carefully: Adhere strictly to the instructions provided with the medication to ensure its effectiveness and minimize side effects.
• Keep Records: Keep track of when you apply the tablet and note any side effects or issues. This information can be helpful in future discussions with your healthcare provider.
• Medical History: Update your healthcare provider about any changes in your health condition or any new medications you start taking.
• Review Medication Use: Periodically review your medication use with your healthcare provider to ensure it remains appropriate for your condition and to make any necessary adjustments.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure safe and effective use of Acyclovir Buccal.