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Brand Name: Zovirax
Generic Name: Acyclovir
(ay sye' kloe veer)
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Why is zovirax prescribed?
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.
Topical zovirax does not prevent the recurrence of sores but may decrease pain and itching if applied when the earliest symptoms first appear. Oral zovirax decreases the frequency and severity of recurrent sores, but it is used only by people with severe herpes infections because of possible adverse effects.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
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How should zovirax be used properly?
Acyclovir (Zovirax) comes as an ointment for use on the skin and as a tablet, capsule, and liquid to take by mouth. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take acyclovir exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Use this medication as soon as possible after symptoms appear.
Clean and dry the skin area before applying the ointment. Wear protective gloves when applying it to prevent the spread of infection. Rub the ointment in gently. Use enough ointment to cover all sores completely. Do not apply acyclovir ointment to the eyes.
Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medication evenly.
Continue to take acyclovir even if you feel well. Do not stop taking acyclovir without talking to your doctor.
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What special precautions should I follow when using zovirax?
Before taking acyclovir,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acyclovir, valacyclovir (Valtrex), or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially probenecid (Benemid), zidovudine (Retrovir, AZT), and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease, problems with your immune system, human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV), or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking acyclovir, call your doctor.
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What special dietary instructions should I follow while taking zovirax?
Acyclovir may cause an upset stomach. Take acyclovir with food or milk.
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What should I do if I forget a dose of zovirax?
You should take the missed dose of zovirax just as soon as you remember to take it and take any remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals. Unless, it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose of your medication to make up for a missed one.
If you are using ointment, apply it as soon as you remember and apply the further doses at your regular interval (ex: every 3 hours) until you go to bed.
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What side effects can zovirax cause?
Although side effects from acyclovir are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- burning, stinging, itching, or rash when ointment is applied
- diarrhea or loose stools
- upset stomach
- headache
- vomiting
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- yellowness of the skin or eyes
- blood in the urine
- stomach pain
severe itching
severe rash
confusion
fever
» top What storage conditions are needed for zovirax?
Always keep the zovirax in the same container it came in. Make sure it is tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store this medication at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture; do not store this medication in the bathroom.
Always be sure to dispose of any medication that is no longer needed or outdated. Be sure to ask your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
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What do I do in case of emergency or a zovirax overdose?
In case of an zovirax overdose, be sure to call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim is not breathing or has collapsed, dial 911 for local emergency services.
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What other information should I know about zovirax?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to acyclovir.
Do not have sexual intercourse when you can see the genital herpes lesions. However, genital herpes can be spread even when there are no symptoms.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish topical acyclovir, call your doctor.
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This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general guidelines only; please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.
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