Indications
Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment is an ophthalmic medication used to treat herpes simplex virus infections of the cornea of the eye. It is effective in the treatment of acute herpetic keratitis (dendritic ulcers) in patients with herpes simplex (HSV-1 and HSV-2) virus.
The active ingredient in Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment is acyclovir and it works by preventing the herpes simplex virus from multiplying. Note that Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment should only be used under the guidance of a medical professional and should not be used if you are allergic to acyclovir or valacyclovir.
Use and Dosages
Acyclovir ophthalmic is a form of an eye ointment and is applied to the eyes. The usual frequency of application is five times a day (every 3 hours when awake) until the eye has fully healed, and then three times a day for another 7 days. Usage timings should be consistent every day for application of the acyclovir eye ointment.
To use the eye ointment, follow these instructions:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Use a mirror or have someone else apply the ointment.
- Avoid touching the tip of the tube against your eye or anything else. The ointment must be kept clean.
- Tilt your head forward slightly.
- Holding the tube between your thumb and index finger, place the tube as near as possible to your eyelid without touching it.
- Brace the remaining fingers of that hand against your cheek or nose.
- With the index finger of your other hand, pull the lower lid of your eye down to form a pocket.
- Place a 1 cm (about a 1/2 inch) strip of ointment into the pocket made by the lower lid and the eye.
- Gently close your eyes and keep them closed for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the medication to be absorbed.
- Replace and tighten the cap right away.
- Wipe off any excess ointment from your eyelids and lashes with a clean tissue. Wash your hands again
Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use acyclovir eye ointment exactly as directed. Your doctor will tell you when you can start using ophthalmic acyclovir 3 times a day. Do not use it or more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Zovirax Opth Ointment (Acyclovir):
- Eye pain or sting
- Painful irritation of the clear front part of the eye
- Redness, itching, pain, swelling, or other irritation of the eye
Serious Side Effects of Zovirax Opth Ointment (Acyclovir):
- Hives, itching, rash, swelling of the eyes, face, lips, mouth, throat, or tongue
- New or worsening red, watery eyes, eye sensitivity to light, blurred vision, or pain around the eye
Forms and Strength
Zovirax Opth Ointment (Acyclovir) is available in the following forms and strength:
Acyclovir: Opthalmic Ointment
- 3%
Cautions
- Zovirax Opth Ointment must be used only as prescribed by a doctor.
- The potential side effects of Zovirax Opth Ointment include burning, stinging, itching, and redness of the eye.
- Acyclovir can interact with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.
- The safety of using Acyclovir during pregnancy or while breastfeeding is unknown, and it should only be used if needed and if recommended by a doctor.
- Zovirax Opth Ointment should not be used for more than 10 days without consulting a doctor.
- Wash hands before and after applying the ointment to prevent the spread of infection.
- Acyclovir can cause blurred vision, so do not drive, or operate machinery immediately after applying the ointment.
- Patients who wear contact lenses should remove them prior to application of the ointment and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
- Acyclovir should not be applied inside the eyelids or in the eye's anterior chamber.
- Overuse of Acyclovir can result in increased viral resistance to the medication.
- Patients with impaired renal function may require a dose adjustment for Zovirax Opth Ointment.
- Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to acyclovir or any other ingredient in the ointment should not use Zovirax Opth Ointment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a prescription to use Acyclovir?
Yes, it is available only with your doctor's prescription.
How long Acyclovir should be used for?
The length of treatment with Acyclovir ophthalmic ointment will depend on the severity of the infection and individual factors. Your doctor will determine the appropriate length of treatment for you.
Can Zovirax Opth Ointment get rid of the herpes simplex virus from my body?
No, Zovirax Opth Ointment does not get rid of the virus from your body. It only helps to treat the symptoms of the infection.
Can Acyclovir ointment be used long-term?
Acyclovir ophthalmic ointment should only be used for the length of time prescribed by your doctor, and long-term use should be avoided without medical supervision.
Resources
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a619029.html
- https://gskpro.com/content/dam/global/hcpportal/en_MW/PI/Zovirax-Ophthalmic-Ointment-GDS17.pdf
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/acyclovir-ophthalmic-route/description/drg-20461331
- https://www.drugs.com/cons/acyclovir-ophthalmic.html
- https://www.rxlist.com/acyclovir_ophthalmic/generic-drug.htm
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