Zovirax (Acyclovir)

What is Zovirax?

Zovirax is a synthetic nucleoside analogue, active against herpes virus. This antiviral drug, with acyclovir, comes in the form of creams, suspensions, capsules and tablets.

What is Zovirax used for?

Zovirax is used to control Herpes Zoster or shingles. It is indicated for the treatment of initial episodes and management of repeated episodes of genital herpes. The medicine is also ascribed with treating chicken pox effectively.

How does Zovirax work?

Zovirax works by inhibiting the growth and multiplication of the herpes virus and facilitating the resistance to other such infections.

How to use Zovirax

Take Zovirax as per the instructions of your doctor and do not take this medication longer than recommended. Take each dose with a full glass of water and you are also advised to drink plenty of water while undergoing the medication, in order to help your kidneys function properly.

You can take Zovirax with or without meal, but prefer to take it with food as it will keep you away from stomach upset. If you take oral suspension liquid form of the medicine, shake it well before measuring a dose. Make sure you use only the special dose-measuring device to measure the doses, and not the regular tablespoon or teaspoon.

Zovirax warnings and precautions

You may start feeling better before the infection is treated completely, so you are advised not to stop the medication and to take Zovirax for the entire length of time as suggested by your doctor.

Zovirax should not be used to treat viral infections such as flu or common cold.

Ask your doctor before taking this medicine, if you have kidney disease. You may require special tests or dose adjustment.

Tell your doctor, if you are pregnant or planning to conceive before being prescribed this medicine. Zovirax is expected to pass into mother’s milk, so if you’re a nursing mother, check with your doctor before taking this medication.

Herpes infection is communicable and other people may get infected from you even if you are undergoing the treatment. Hence, do not share your creams and suspensions with anyone else. Clean up the area after the use of Zovirax’s cream so that you don’t spread the infection.

Lesions caused by herpes virus should be kept clean and dry. Make sure that your infected areas that develop lesions do not come in contact with other people. Use external contraceptives during intercourse.

What do I do if I have missed a Zovirax dose?

If you have missed your Zovirax dose, you should take it right away. You can skip the missed dose if it’s time to take the next one.

What do I do if I have taken a Zovirax overdose?

If you have taken a Zovirax overdose, you should seek help of your local medical emergency room.

Zovirax interactions

You must discuss with your doctor if you are already taking probenecid before starting the course of Zovirax. Tell your doctor about all the prescribed and non-prescribed drugs you take before starting the treatment.

Tell your doctor if you take minerals or vitamin supplements and herbal products before being prescribed this medicine.

Medicines like gentamicin, cyclosporine, amphotericin B, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, tacrolimus and vancomycin should not be taken with Zovirax without telling your doctor.

Zovirax side effects

Check with your doctor if you experience side effects such as diarrhea, headache, discomfort, nausea or vomiting. You must seek help of your local emergency room if you experience some severe side effects of Zovirax like hives, skin rash, itching, tightness in the chest, difficulty in breathing, and swelling of the mouth, lips, face, tongue or the groin area.

Aggressive behavior, confusion, decreased consciousness, blood in urine, hallucinations, pain in the lower back, decreased urination; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; mental or mood changes, unusual bleeding or bruising are also considered serious Zovirax side effects.