Zovirax Medication Uses
Zovirax medication is a prescription medication used to treat herpes infections of the skin, lip, and genitals; herpes zoster (shingles); and chickenpox. Zovirax does not cure herpes infections but rather decreases pain and itching and promotes healing. Topical Zovirax does not prevent the recurrence of sores but may decrease pain and itching if applied when the earliest symptoms first appear. Zovirax may sometimes prescribed for other uses.
How Taken
Treatment with topical Zovirax should atart as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (e.g. tingling, burning, blisters).
Wash your hands before and after applying Zovirax.
Wear a glove or a finger cot or use an applicator (e.g. cotton swab) when applying Zovirax to avoid spreading the virus to other body parts and to other people.
Apply enough ointment to cover the lesion(s) completely. A one-half inch ribbon of ointment should cover approximately 4 square inches of surface area.
Avoid getting this Zovirax in the eyes.
Zovirax is usually applied every 3 hours, six times a day for seven days. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Use Zovirax for the full period prescribed, even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.
Lesions caused by herpes viruses should be kept as clean and dry as possible. Wearing loose clothing may help to prevent irritation of the lesions.
Warnings/Precautions
Before using Zovirax, tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions or if you use any other medications.
Zovirax topical is in the FDA pregnancy category C, which means that it is not known if it will harm an unborn baby. Do not use Zovirax topical without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether Zovirax topical passes into breast milk. Do not use Zovirax topical without first talking to your doctor if you are breast feeding.
Missed Dose
Apply Zovirax as you remember and apply further doses at your regular interval until you go to bed. However, if it is almost time for the next dose of Zovirax, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Possible Side Effects
No serious side effects are expected during treatment with Zovirax topical. If you suspect an allergic reaction to Zovirax (difficulty breathing; rash; hives; itching; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face) seek emergency medical attention.
Other less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use Zovirax and talk to your doctor if you experience itching, stinging, burning, or a rash. These side effects should resolve quickly.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
Storage
StoreZovirax below 25oC. Do not refrigerate.
Overdose
An overdose of Zovirax is not likely to occur. If you suspect an overdose of Zovirax or ingestion of Zovirax topical, call an emergency room or poison control left for advice.
More Zovirax Information
Zovirax Cream is contra-indicated in patients known to be hypersensitive to acyclovir or propylene glycol.
Zovirax is most effective if it is started within 48 hours of the rash first appearing.
Follow the instructions for using Zovirax provided by your doctor.
Disclaimer
This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of Zovirax. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.
