Zovirax Cream (Acyclovir)

Do’s

• Zovirax Cream should be applied to the affected area and rubbed in gently as directed by your healthcare provider. 
• It should be applied five times a day at approximately four hourly intervals, omitting the nighttime application. The cream should be applied to cover all affected areas, including red/tingling/burning areas and sores.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after applying the medication. 
• The cream should only be applied to the skin.
• If the cream is being applied to genital herpes sores, the use of a finger cot or rubber gloves is recommended to avoid spreading the infection.
• For the treatment of cold sores, Zovirax Cream should be used for at least 4 days. If the cold sore has not healed by then, the cream can be continued for another 6 days. For genital herpes, the cream should be used for at least 5 days, and if the sores have not healed by then, it can be continued for another 5 days. If the affected area has still not healed after a total of 10 days, the use of the cream should be stopped, and a healthcare provider should be consulted.
• Adhere to the prescribed duration of use and seek medical advice if the condition does not improve or worsens after treatment.

Don’ts

• The cream should not be used in the eyes or nose, inside the mouth, or inside the vagina.
• Avoid applying other skin products, such as drugs, cosmetics, sunscreens, or lip balms, to the affected area unless instructed by a healthcare provider. 
• Do not cover the treated area with plastic or waterproof bandages unless directed by a healthcare provider.
• Cold sores (herpes) can spread easily, so close physical contact with others, such as kissing, should be avoided during an outbreak until the cold sores have completely healed. It is also recommended to avoid touching the cold sore and to wash hands if contact occurs.

A very serious allergic reaction to Zovirax Cream is rare. However, seek medical help right away if any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction are noticed, including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

Other Possible Side Effects: 

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Signs of kidney problems (such as a change in the amount of urine, unusual back/side pain)
• Mental/mood changes (such as agitation, confusion, hallucinations)
• Shaky/unsteady movement
• Unusual tiredness
• Fast heartbeat
• Easy bruising/bleeding
• New fever
• Bloody/dark urine
• Severe stomach/abdominal pain
• Yellowing of the eyes/skin

Seek medical help right away if any of these side effects are experienced. Additionally, inform a healthcare provider if any other effects not listed above are noticed.

Not all people using Zovirax Cream will experience these side effects, and individual responses to the medication can vary. If any concerns arise regarding the use of Zovirax Cream or if any side effects are experienced, contact a healthcare provider for guidance and support.

Do use Zovirax Cream if you are allergic to Zovirax (acyclovir), Valacyclovir, or any of the ingredients of Zovirax Cream. If you experience any signs of allergy, seek medical advice.

Before starting to use Zovirax Cream, inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

The safety and efficacy of Zovirax Cream have not been studied in patients younger than 12 years of age or in patients whose immune system is not normal.

Zovirax Cream may interact with other drugs or health problems. Inform your healthcare provider about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems before using Zovirax Cream.

Zovirax Cream should be used with caution in individuals who know that they are immunocompromised. Such individuals should be encouraged to consult a healthcare provider concerning the treatment of any infection.

Follow the guidance of a healthcare provider regarding the usage and any associated warnings or precautions of Zovirax Cream.