A topical composition comprising an antiinflammatory glucocorticoid and a nucleoside analogue antiviral agent in a pharmaceutical carrier characterized in that the carrier comprises about 15 to about 25 weight % propylene glycol and about 10 to about 25 weight percent isopropyl C.sub.12 C.sub.22 alkanoic ester. The compositions have utility in the treatment or prophylaxis of herpesvirus infections and exhibit superior antiviral and therapeutic efficacy and an improved shelf life.