Drug Uses

Zovirax is a medicine used for treatment of herpes infections of the skin, lip and genitals, herpes zoster (shingles), and chickenpox. This medicine does not cure herpes infection but reduces the pain and itching, and stimulates the healing. Topical Zovirax cannot prevent the occurrence of new sores but may reduce the pain and itching if it is applied after the first symptoms appear. Oral Zovirax reduces the frequency and severity of recurrent sores but in used only by patients who have severe herpes infections because it may cause side effects. The medicine may also be used for other purposes. Talk to your doctor for more information on the question.

How Taken

You should begin the treatment with Zovirax as soon as possible after the first symptoms appear (tingling, burning, blisters). Wash your hands before you apply Zovirax and after that. It is recommended that you wear a glove, a finger cot or use an applicator (cotton swab) when you apply Zovirax topical in order to avoid the spread of the virus to other parts of the body and to other people. You should enough amount of the medicine to cover the lesions thoroughly. About 4 square inches of surface area should be covered by a one-half inch ribbon of the medicine. Do not allow Zovirax to get into the eyes. Zovirax topical is commonly applied six times a day at intervals of 3 hours for a period of seven days. You should strictly follow the instructions provided by your doctor. Do not discontinue the usage of Zovirax even if you feel better. The symptoms of your condition may improve before the infection is completely treated. You should keep the lesions caused by herpes viruses clean and dry. You may prevent their irritation if you wear loose clothing.

Warnings/Precautions

Before you use Zovirax you should notify your doctor if you have any other medical conditions or if you are using other medicines. Zovirax falls into the FDA category C which means that it is not clear if is harmful for a fetus. Talk to your doctor before using Zovirax in case you are pregnant. Also, consult your doctor before taking the medicine if you are breast feeding because it is not clear if Zovirax passes into breast milk.

Missed Dose

You should apply the missed dose as soon as you remember and apply the following doses at regular intervals (for example, every 3 hours) until you go to bed. However, if it is already time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and take the regular dose. Do not apply a double dose to catch up the missed one.

Possible Side Effects

Zovirax is not expected to cause serious side effects. Immediately search for medical help if you suspect an allergic reaction manifested by difficulty breathing; rash; hives; itching; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face. Other less serious adverse effects may occur. Consult your doctor but do not stop using Zovirax if you have itching, stinging, burning, or a rash. These adverse reactions should disappear quickly. You may also experience other adverse effects that are not mentioned in this leaflet. Consult your doctor if you experience some other side effects.

Storage

Zovirax should be store at a temperature below 25oC. Do not keep the medicine in the refrigerator.

Overdose

Zovirax is not expected to cause an overdose. However, call your doctor or local emergency room for advice in case you suspect an overdose.

More Information

Zovirax Cream should not be used by patients who are hypersensitive to acyclovir or propylene glycol. The medicine is most effective if the treatment starts within 48 hours after the rash appears. You should strictly follow the instructions of your doctor.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.