Zovirax Topical
Generic name:acyclovir (topical) [ a-SYE-klo-veer ]
Drug class:Topical antivirals
What is Zovirax Topical?
Zovirax Topical (for the skin) is an antiviral medicine that is used to treat skin symptoms caused by the herpes virus.
Zovirax Topical cream is used to treat cold sores on the lips and face.
Zovirax Topical ointment is used to treat genital herpes lesions.
There is no cure for herpes and acyclovir will not prevent you from developing symptoms in the future.
Zovirax Topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Zovirax Topical if you are allergic to acyclovir or valacyclovir (Valtrex).
Zovirax Topical is not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine).
It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. However, herpes virus can be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. If you have genital herpes, it is very important to prevent herpes lesions during your pregnancy, so that you do not have a genital lesion when your baby is born.
You should not breastfeed if you have a herpes lesion on or near your breast.
How should I use Zovirax Topical?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.
Start using acyclovir as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).
Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine.
Apply only enough cream to cover the cold sore or tingly area.
Apply only enough ointment to cover the genital lesion(s) completely. Wear a glove or a finger cot or use a cotton swab when applying the ointment to avoid spreading the virus to other body parts and to other people.
Zovirax Topical cream is usually applied 5 times daily for 4 days. This medicine ointment is usually applied 6 times daily for 7 days. Follow your doct...
