Zovirax cream

aciclovir

Zovirax Cream is used for treating cold sores on the face or lips that are caused by the herpes virus and genital herpes (caused by herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2). It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Zovirax Cream is a formulation for topical administration and should be applied four to six times per day, for four and up to 10 days. For recurrent infections aciclovir cream is most effective if treatment is started as soon as the first signs of the infection begin to reappear. It is used in adults and adolescents. Zovirax Cream should not be used in children younger than 12 years old.

Zovirax Cream contains the active ingredient aciclovir, which is an antiviral. It works by stopping viral replication. Aciclovir is converted to a more active form inside cells of the body that are infected with herpes simplex. It blocks the action of DNA polymerase and thus prevents the herpes virus from multiplying. This controls the infection and helps the immune system to deal with it. However, Zovirax Cream does not eliminate the herpes virus, it is not a cure, and it does not prevent transmission to others.

How to use Zovirax Cream: Wash and completely dry your hands and the affected area. Apply the medicine only to the affected area. A sufficient quantity of cream should be applied to adequately cover all lesions. Gently rub the medicine in. Wash your hands after using Zovirax Cream. To clear up your infection completely, use Zovirax Cream for the full course of treatment. For best results, use Zovirax Cream at the first sign of a cold sore (tingling, redness, itching, or bump). This cream is not suitable for application to mucous membranes such as inside the mouth, eye or vagina, as it may be irritant to these areas.

Side effects:
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. The following are most common skin-related side effects at the area of application, that are known to be associated with this medicine: stinging or burning, itching, dry or cracked lips/skin, flushing of the skin. This side effects may go away as your body becomes used to the medication; check with your doctor if they continue or become bothersome.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur: rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; excessive itching; dizziness.

Some medical conditions may interact with Zovirax Cream. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist if you are:

- pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Zovirax Cream while you are pregnant. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Zovirax Cream, discuss any possible risks to your baby before using this medicine.

- taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement Some medicines may interact with Zovirax Cream. Because little, if any, of Zovirax Cream is absorbed into the blood, the risk of it interacting with another medicine is low. An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. In many cases, interactions are intended or are managed by close monitoring. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed. Do not use other skin products such as cosmetics, sunscreen, or lip balm on the cold sore area while you are using Zovirax Cream unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

- if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances Do not use Zovirax Cream if you are allergic to any ingredient in Zovirax Cream or valaciclovir. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Effective dosage:
applied 4 times/day

Drug Class: Herpes.