Barrier Therapeutics, Inc., a pharmaceutical company developing and commercializing products in the field of dermatology, has launched Denavir (penciclovir cream) 1 per cent in Canada.

Denavir 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 appears on the outside of the mouth, usually on the face or around the lips. Cold sores are often a re-occurring condition and approximately 25 per cent of those afflicted by cold sores experience at least three occurrences per year. 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. Denavir works by penetrating the area to block the virus that causes the cold sores and can help heal them on average in four and a half days. Denavir can also be effective in preventing the spread of the virus even after the cold sore blister has appeared.

With the launch of Denavir, physicians in Canada now have available a unique treatment option for patients who suffer from cold sores that has not been previously available. 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 per cent for slowing the growth of unwanted facial hair in women and Solage (mequinol 2 per cent, tretinoin 0.01 per cent) Topical Solution for the treatment of solar lentigines, a common condition also known as "age spots" or "liver spots."