About Zovirax

The information below should not be taken as a substitute for qualified medical advice. Consult your health care provider before taking Zovirax.

Zovirax is an anti-viral drug used in treating various forms of herpes, including genital herpes, shingles and chicken pox. Zovirax cannot cure herpes infections, but it can lessen symptoms and may reduce the length of outbreaks. The specific form of Zovirax prescribed depends upon the condition: topical products are used with external genital lesions; tablets may be used for external lesions or for shingles or chicken pox; and an intravenous (IV) solution may be used for severe infections, especially in patients whose immune systems are compromised.

Patients should notify their physicians of all drugs they take, especially Benemid/probenecid, and also if they have impaired renal function, as dosages may need to be adjusted. All patients should follow dosage instructions carefully. Those using cream or ointment forms of Zovirax should wash their hands prior to use, and use a glove or finger cot to apply. Herpes is highly contagious, and touching other body areas after touching a lesion could transmit the disease; touching the eyes should especially be avoided.

Women who are pregnant or who become pregnant should notify their doctors. Nursing mothers may not be able to use Zovirax, as it is transmitted through breast milk.

Zovirax should be taken at the first sign of symptoms, including tingling or burning before lesions appear, and is generally continued for 10 days. Contact your physician if you experience lower back pain, reduced urination or no urination, bruising or bleeding easily and unusual weakness. Other symptoms may include dizziness, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, and swelling in hands or feet.

What is Acyclovir?

Acyclovir is the generic form of Zovirax and can be purchased as a cheaper alternative to save money on your medication. The same ingredients are used in the manufacturing of the brand name version of this drug as in Acyclovir.