Zovirax cream

aciclovir

Zovirax cream is an antiviral drug that is used to treat cold sores in adults and adolescents. Zovirax (Acyclovir) is used to treat herpes infections of the skin, lip, and genitals; herpes zoster (shingles); and chickenpox. It does not cure herpes infections but decreases pain and itching and promotes healing.

Zovirax cream contains the active ingredient aciclovir, which is an antiviral medicine. It is used to treat skin infections with the herpes simplex virus, for example cold sores and genital herpes (caused by herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2). Aciclovir works by stopping the herpes simplex virus from reproducing and infecting more cells. Aciclovir is converted to a more active form inside cells of the body that are infected with herpes simplex. The activated aciclovir then works by blocking the action of a viral enzyme called DNA polymerase.

The herpes virus needs the DNA polymerase enzyme to copy its genetic material from RNA to DNA. This process is necessary for the virus to multiply and continue to survive. By blocking the action of DNA polymerase, aciclovir prevents the herpes virus from multiplying. This controls the infection and helps the immune system to deal with it. For recurrent infections aciclovir cream is most effective if treatment is started as soon as the first signs of the infection begin to reappear.

How to use
For best results, use this medicine at the first sign of a cold sore (tingling, redness, itching, or bump). Wash and completely dry the affected area. Apply the medicine only to the affected area and not to the surrounding skin. Gently rub the medicine in until it disappears. Wash your hands after using this medicine. Do not bandage or wrap the area unless directed to do so by your doctor. Do not bathe, shower or swim right after using this medicine. To clear up your infection completely, continue using this medicine for the full course of treatment even if you feel better in a few days. Do not miss any doses. If you miss a dose of this medicine, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Application
Apply the medication to the affected area 5 times daily for 4 days as directed by your doctor. A sufficient quantity of cream should be applied to adequately cover the lesion, and rubbed in until the cream disappears. Wash hands with soap and water before and after using the medication. For this medication to be most effective, you should start using this medication as soon as possible following the onset of signs and symptoms of a cold sore (such as tingling, redness, itching, or a bump). Do not apply other products (makeup, lip balms) to the same area where the medication is being applied. Do not cover the area with a bandage unless directed to by your doctor.

This medication should not be swallowed, used in the eye, or applied to mucous membranes such as the mouth, nose, or genital areas.

Side effects
A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. A side effect may be mild or severe, temporary or permanent, but does not occur in everyone. Not everyone will experience side effects, and which side effects a person experiences cannot be anticipated. This medication may cause dry/cracked lips, burning, stinging, or skin flakiness/shedding. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Store this medication at room temperature (59°F to 86°F). Never leave acyclovir cream in your car in cold or hot weather. Keep acyclovir out of the reach of children.