Question 1

What is Xerese?

Accepted Answer

Xerese is a medication that combines two active ingredients: acyclovir and hydrocortisone. Acyclovir belongs to a class of medications called antivirals, which work by stopping the virus from growing. Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that helps reduce inflammation and swelling.

This combination therapy is designed to manage conditions where both a virus and inflammation are present. It works by targeting the underlying cause of the infection while simultaneously managing the body's reaction to it.

Question 2

What is Xerese used for?

Accepted Answer

Xerese is used to treat herpes labialis .

Question 3

How does Xerese work?

Accepted Answer

How Xerese Works

Xerese is a combination medication that uses two different active ingredients to treat cold sores on the lips and surrounding skin.

The first ingredient, acyclovir , is an antiviral drug. It works by stopping the herpes simplex virus from replicating. By blocking the virus's ability to copy its DNA, acyclovir prevents the infection from spreading to healthy skin cells.

The second ingredient, hydrocortisone , is a corticosteroid. It targets the body's immune response to the virus. When the virus is active, it causes inflammation, which leads to the pain, swelling, and redness associated with a cold sore. Hydrocortisone helps reduce this inflammation.

Together, these ingredients work to:

Stop the virus from growing.

Reduce the swelling and redness of the affected area.

Decrease the likelihood of the cold sore progressing to a blister or crust.

Question 4

What are the active ingredients in Xerese?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredients in Xerese are acyclovir and hydrocortisone .

Question 5

What are the side effects of Xerese?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Xerese may include:

Application site burning

Itching

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 6

What drug class is Xerese?

Accepted Answer

Xerese belongs to the antiviral and corticosteroid combination drug class.

Question 7

What is the dosage of Xerese and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

How to Apply

Xerese should be applied to the affected area as soon as you notice early symptoms of a cold sore, such as tingling, itching, or redness. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after applying the cream.

Clean and dry the skin before use. Apply a thin layer of the cream to cover the cold sore or the area where you feel one starting. Gently rub the medication into the skin until it disappears. Do not wash the cream off your skin immediately after application.

Usage Guidelines

Apply the medication five times daily for five days.

Use the cream only on the lips and the skin around the lips. Do not apply it inside the mouth, nose, or near the eyes.

Do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings unless instructed by a doctor.

Avoid using other skin products, such as lip balm, sunscreen, or makeup, on the area while you are using this medication.

If the cold sore does not improve after five days of treatment, contact a healthcare provider.

Do not use this medication on children under six years of age unless directed by a doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next application, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply extra cream to make up for a missed dose.

Question 8

Is Xerese safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Xerese use in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this medication should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

While the systemic absorption of acyclovir and hydrocortisone following topical application is minimal, healthcare providers typically weigh the necessity of the treatment against potential risks to the developing fetus.

Breastfeeding

It is unknown whether the components of Xerese are excreted in human milk following topical application. However, when the active ingredients (acyclovir and hydrocortisone) are administered systemically by mouth or injection, they are known to pass into breast milk.

If you are breastfeeding, consult with a healthcare professional before using this medication. Caution is advised to ensure the nursing infant does not come into direct contact with the treated skin area.

Question 9

What forms and strengths does Xerese come in?

Accepted Answer

Xerese is available as a cream for topical application to the skin. It is typically supplied in tubes for multi-dose use.

The cream contains a fixed-dose combination of two active ingredients in the following strengths:

Acyclovir: 5%

Hydrocortisone: 1%

Question 10

What is the FDA approval status of Xerese?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval History

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Xerese, a combination of the antiviral acyclovir and the corticosteroid hydrocortisone, in July 2009. It was the first topical treatment approved to show a reduction in the progression of cold sores to the ulcerative stage.

Approved Indications

Xerese is indicated for the early treatment of recurrent herpes labialis, commonly known as cold sores. It is approved for use in the following populations:

Adults

Pediatric patients 6 years of age and older

The medication is intended to reduce the likelihood of ulcerative cold sores and to shorten the healing time of lesions when applied at the first sign of a cold sore.

Regulatory Status and Safety

There are currently no boxed warnings or Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS) requirements for Xerese. The FDA has conducted routine safety and utilization reviews, including pediatric safety reviews, which have supported its safety profile when used according to the labeling. Generic versions of acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical cream have been approved by the FDA and are available.

Question 11

What should I know about Xerese and cost?

Accepted Answer

Generic vs.

Brand Name

A generic version of Xerese, containing acyclovir and hydrocortisone, is available. Generic drugs are required to have the same active ingredients and strength as the brand-name version but are usually sold at a lower price.

Insurance and Coverage

The amount you pay for Xerese will depend on your health insurance plan. Many insurance providers cover the generic version more readily than the brand-name drug. It is common for plans to place these medications in different cost tiers, which determines your copayment or coinsurance amount.

Pharmacy Pricing

Retail prices for Xerese can vary between different pharmacies. Patients may find different costs at large retail chains, independent pharmacies, or mail-order services. Some pharmacies may also offer discount programs or coupons that can reduce the out-of-pocket expense.

Xerese

Medication Quick Facts

📋Overview

What It's Used For

How It Works

Side Effects

Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Forms & Strengths

FDA / Regulatory Status

Price Information

FAQ

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