Drug reference
penciclovir
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Anti Virals (Herpesvirus)
Mechanism of action
Penciclovir is converted to the pharmacologically active triphosphate metabolite, which has in vitro and in vivo inhibitory activity against various Herpesviridae, including herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2), varicella-zoster virus (VZV), and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)
Common side effects
- Headache
- Milde erythema
- Application site reaction
- Hypesthesia/local anesthesia
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is penciclovir?
penciclovir belongs to: Anti Virals.
How does penciclovir work?
Penciclovir is converted to the pharmacologically active triphosphate metabolite, which has in vitro and in vivo inhibitory activity against various Herpesviridae, including herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2), varicella-zoster virus (VZV), and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)
What are the common side effects of penciclovir?
Headache, Milde erythema, Application site reaction, Hypesthesia/local anesthesia
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