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Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection.
Hydrocortisone is a topical (for the skin) steroid. It reduces the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation.
The combination of acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical (for the skin) is used to treat cold sores in people who are at least 12 years old.
This medication will not cure or prevent cold sores caused by herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection.
Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical will not cure or prevent herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection.
Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical. Acyclovir and hydrocortisone will not prevent the spread of genital herpes. Avoid sexual intercourse or use a latex condom to prevent spreading the virus to others.
Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical is for use for cold sores on the lips and around the mouth. This medication will not treat herpes lesions that affect the genitals or the eyes.
Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared.
Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have severe burning, stinging, or irritation of treated skin.
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to acyclovir (Zovirax) or hydrocortisone.
To make sure you can safely use acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical, tell your doctor if you have a weak immune system (caused by disease by or using certain medicines).
FDA pregnancy category B. Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical should not be used on a child younger than 12 years old.
Do not share this medication with other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have severe burning, stinging, or irritation of treated skin.
Less serious side effects may include:

• mild burning or tingling after applying the medicine;
• skin dryness or flaking;
• bitter taste in your mouth after applying the medicine; or
• skin redness or discoloration;

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If this does happen, rinse with water. When treating a cold sore, apply the medication only the outer part of your lips.
Do not apply acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical to your genitals.
Do not apply sunscreen, lip balm, or cosmetics to the treated cold sore area.
Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people. Avoid touching an infected area and then touching your eyes. Wash your hands frequently to prevent passing the infection to others.
It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied acyclovir and hydrocortisone topical. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.