Generic Zovirax - acyclovir - is used to treat herpes infections of the skin, lip, and genitals; herpes zoster (shingles); and chickenpox. Zovirax / acyclovir does not cure herpes infections but decreases pain and itching and promotes healing.

Topical acyclovir does not prevent the recurrence of sores but may decrease pain and itching if applied when the earliest symptoms first appear. Oral acyclovir decreases the frequency and severity of recurrent sores, but it is used only by people with severe herpes infections because of possible adverse effects.


 

FAQ

About oral Zovirax
Oral Zovirax (brand name made by Glaxo Smith Kline, GSK), or Acyclovir (generic Zovirax) is used to treat initial genital herpes infections and to treat patients with recurrent (6 episodes per year) severe genital herpes. Acyclovir reduces the pain and the number of lesions in the initial case, and decreases the frequency and severity in those with recurrent infections. In the treatment of shingles, acyclovir reduces pain, shortens the healing time, and limits the spread of virus and the formation of new lesions. Acyclovir can be used to treat chicken pox and acts to reduce healing time, limit the number of lesions, and reduce fever if used within the first 24 hours after the onset of the disease.

About Zovirax Cream
Zovirax cream (brand name), or Acyclovir cream (generic), is a prescription cream medication used at the initial signs of a herpes outbreak, such as mouth ulcers, cold sores, lip blisters, and genital herpes caused by Herpes Simplex Virus. Acyclovir also treats shingles and chickenpox infections.
Zovirax cream is selectively absorbed into cells infected with Herpes Simplex Virus. Within the infected cell, Herpes Simplex Virus coded enzymes convert Zovirax into its active form. This active form of Zovirax interferes with viral DNA replication, inhibiting replication and growth of Herpes Simplex Virus.

Zovirax dosage
• Zovirax / Acyclovir tablets may be taken with or without food. Acyclovir is excreted mainly by the kidney and dosages need to be reduced in patients with kidney dysfunction. Do not stop taking the drug just because you feel better. It is important that you complete your course of tablets to effectively treat an outbreak of herpes (generally 5 days).

• Zovirax Cream should be applied five times daily at approximately four hourly intervals, omitting the night time application. Treatment should be continued for 5 days. If, after 5 days, healing is not complete then treatment may be continued for up to an additional 5 days. The Cream should be applied to the lesion or impending lesion as early as possible after the start of an infection. It is particularly important to start treatment of recurrent episodes during the prodromal period or when lesions first appear.

How long Zovirax may take to work
Herpes sores usually disappear in a few days after starting treatment. Effectiveness is noted by crusting over and healing of sores. Long-term therapy with acyclovir may be required if you have chronic outbreaks of herpes.

Zovirax side effects
Zovirax / acyclovir has a good toxicity profile, meaning that long term use does not produce major side effects. Stomach upset, headache or nausea are possible. Hair loss from prolonged use has been reported.

Zovirax and pregnancy
A post-marketing aciclovir pregnancy registry has documented pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to any formulation of Zovirax. The birth defects described amongst Zovirax exposed subjects have not shown any uniqueness or consistent pattern to suggest a common cause.
The use of the Cream should be considered only when the potential benefits outweigh the possibility of unknown risks.
Limited human data show that Zovirax (cream and tablets) does pass into breast milk following systemic administration.

Special warnings about Zovirax
If you are being treated for a kidney disorder, consult your doctor before taking Zovirax. The drug has been known to cause kidney failure.
If you develop unusual bruising or bleeding under the skin, be sure to alert your doctor. It could signal a dangerous blood disorder.