Barrier launches Denavir in Canada

Denavir (penciclovir cream) 1% is a topical antiviral prescription medication indicated for the treatment of herpes labialis, also known as cold sores, in adults. This is the only topical antiviral product available by prescription for treating this condition.

Cold sores are caused by a virus known as herpes simplex type 1 (HSV1) and typically appear on the outside of the mouth, usually on the face or around the lips. The virus can be highly contagious and spread from person to person in a variety of ways, including sharing eating utensils or close skin contact.

Specially formulated for use on the lips and face, Denavir is a non-greasy cream that contains an antiviral agent, penciclovir, which is active against the HSV1 virus.

The cream can also be effective in preventing the spread of the virus even after the cold sore blister has appeared.

Denavir is the third product marketed in Canada by Barrier Therapeutics. Other products marketed by the company in Canada include Vaniqa (eflornithine hydrochloride) cream 13.9% for slowing the growth of unwanted facial hair in women and Solage Topical Solution for the treatment of solar lentigines, a common condition also known as liver spots.