Indications
Zovirax Cream is a prescription medication used to treat cold sores (herpes labialis) and genital herpes caused by the herpes simplex virus. It is indicated for adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older. The active ingredient in Zovirax Cream is acyclovir, which is a nucleoside analogue DNA polymerase inhibitor. Zovirax Cream works by inhibiting the replication of the virus, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms.
Uses and Dosage
Zovirax Cream is applied topically to the affected area(s) four to six times a day for up to ten days. Start using Zovirax Cream at the first sign of a cold sore, such as a tingling, burning, or itching sensation. This can help to reduce the severity and duration of the cold sore. Begin treatment at the first signs of an outbreak for the best results.
To use Zovirax Cream for the treatment of cold sores (herpes labialis) on the lips and face, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands before and after applying the cream.
- Apply a small amount of cream to the affected area(s) every 3 to 4 hours, up to 5 times a day, for a maximum of 10 days.
- Rub the cream gently into the skin until it disappears.
- If you accidentally get the cream in your eyes, rinse them thoroughly with water.
Avoid getting the cream in your eyes, nose, or mouth, and do not swallow it. If you accidentally get the cream in your eyes, rinse them thoroughly with water. Also, avoid applying any other skin medications or products, such as cosmetics or lip balm, to the affected area while using Zovirax Cream unless directed to do so by your doctor.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Zovirax Cream (Acyclovir):
- Diarrhea
- General ill feeling
- Headache and
- Mouth pain while using an acyclovir buccal tablet
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Zovirax Cream (Acyclovir):
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Feeling tired
- Little or no urination
- Painful or difficult urination
- Purple or red pinpoint spots under the skin
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in your feet or ankles
Form and Strength
Zovirax Cream (Acyclovir) is available in the following forms and strength:
Zovirax Cream: Cream
- 5%
Acyclovir: Cream
- 5%
Caution
- Allergic reactions: If you have had an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients in Zovirax Cream, you should not use it.
- Pregnancy: It is not known if Zovirax Cream can harm an unborn baby, so talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
- Breastfeeding: It is not known if Zovirax Cream is excreted in breast milk, so talk to your doctor before using it while breastfeeding.
- Kidney problems: If you have kidney problems or are on hemodialysis, you may need a lower dose of Zovirax Cream to avoid potential side effects.
- Drug interactions: Zovirax Cream may interact with other medications you are taking. Be sure to tell your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking before using Zovirax Cream.
- Pre-existing medical conditions: If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, you should talk to your doctor before using Zovirax Cream.
- Overuse: Zovirax Cream should not be used more frequently or in greater amounts than recommended as this can increase the risk of side effects.
- Age: Zovirax Cream is generally not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age without the advice of a healthcare provider.
- Eye contact: Avoid getting Zovirax Cream in your eyes, as it could cause irritation.
- Application: You should only apply Zovirax Cream to the affected area(s) as directed by your healthcare provider, and you should wash your hands before and after applying the cream.
- Use during an outbreak: Zovirax Cream is most effective when used as soon as possible after the start of an outbreak. It may be less effective if used after the cold sore or genital herpes lesion has already formed.
- Resistance: Over time, the herpes virus may become resistant to acyclovir or other antiviral medications. If you experience recurrent outbreaks, your doctor may need to adjust your treatment approach.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Zovirax Cream be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
It is not known if Zovirax Cream can harm an unborn baby or if it is excreted in breast milk, so talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding.
How quickly does Zovirax Cream work?
Zovirax Cream starts working immediately after it is applied. However, it may take several days for the cold sore to heal completely. Continue using the cream as directed for the full 10-day treatment period.
Is Zovirax Cream safe for everyone to use?
Zovirax Cream should not be used by people who are allergic to acyclovir or any of the other ingredients in the cream. It should also be used with caution in people with kidney problems or a weakened immune system.
Can children use Zovirax Cream?
Zovirax Cream is generally safe for use in children over the age of 12. However, it should only be used under the guidance of a doctor.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/acyclovir/what-is
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a606001.html
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/021478s007lbl.pdf
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=0da14760-1131-4936-9a42-c40fc4db5cd0&type=display
- https://www.rxlist.com/zovirax-cream-drug.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5230-432/zovirax-topical/acyclovir-cream-topical/details
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