Barrier Therapeutics, Inc., a pharmaceutical company developing and commercializing products in the field of dermatology, acquired the exclusive rights to market and distribute Denavir (penciclovir cream) 1% in Canada from Novartis Consumer Health, Inc., an affiliate of Novartis, Inc.

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 prescription product approved by Health Canada for treating this condition. Under the terms of the agreement, Barrier will be the exclusive distributor of Denavir in Canada and will be responsible for all sales, marketing and distribution activities. Novartis Consumer Health will be responsible for supplying Barrier with finished goods, informed the release.

Denavir is a non-greasy cream specially formulated for use on the lips and face and contains an antiviral agent, penciclovir, which is active against the HSV1 virus. Denavir works by penetrating the area to block the virus that causes cold sores. Denavir has been found to be most effective when applied during the early signs of a cold sore and helps cold sores heal on average in four and a half days.

Denavir will be the third product marketed in Canada by Barrier. In addition to Denavir, in Canada Barrier markets VANIQA (eflornithine hydrochloride) Cream 13.9% for slowing the growth of unwanted facial hair in women and Solage (mequinol 2%, tretinoin 0.01%) Topical Solution for the treatment of solar lentigines, a common condition also known as "age spots" or "liver spots."

A cold sore is a common occurrence caused by a virus known as herpes simplex type 1 (HSV1) which appears on the outside of the mouth, usually on the face or around the lips. Cold sores are highly contagious and can spread from person to person in a variety of ways, including sharing eating utensils or close skin contact.