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Zovirax Topical

Generic name: acyclovir (topical)

Used for cold sores
Last updated November 5, 2026 0 views
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What is Zovirax Topical?

Zovirax Topical (for the skin) is an antiviral medicine that is made use of to deal with skin signs and symptoms triggered by the herpes infection.

Zovirax Topical lotion is utilized to deal with cold sores on the lips and face.

Zovirax Topical ointment is used to treat genital herpes lesions.

There is no remedy for herpes and acyclovir will not stop you from creating symptoms in the future.

Zovirax Topical may additionally be used for functions not detailed in this medication guide.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Warnings

Adhere to all instructions on your medicine label and plan. Inform each of your healthcare providers concerning all your medical problems, allergies, and all medications you utilize.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Before taking this medicine

You must not make use of Zovirax Topical if you are allergic to acyclovir or valacyclovir (Valtrex).

Zovirax Topical is not approved for use by anybody more youthful than 12 years of ages.

Tell your medical professional if you have ever before had a weak body immune system (triggered by condition or by using particular medication).

It is not recognized whether this medication will certainly damage an expected child. Nevertheless, herpes infection can be passed from an infected mother to her baby during giving birth. If you have genital herpes, it is very essential to avoid herpes lesions during your maternity, so that you do not have a genital lesion when your child is birthed.

You need to not breastfeed if you have a herpes lesion on or near your bust.

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Zovirax Topical side effects

Obtain emergency situation medical aid if you have indications of an allergy: hives; challenging breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Typical negative effects of Zovirax Topical might include:

  • dry, split, or peeling lips;
  • dryness or molting of treated skin;
  • burning, painful, or itching when the medication is applied.

This is not a full checklist of adverse effects and others might happen. Call your physician for medical guidance regarding adverse effects. You might report negative effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

How should I use Zovirax Topical?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.

Start using acyclovir as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).

Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine.

Apply only enough cream to cover the cold sore or tingly area.

Apply only enough ointment to cover the genital lesion(s) completely. Wear a glove or a finger cot or use a cotton swab when applying the ointment to avoid spreading the virus to other body parts and to other people.

Zovirax Topical cream is usually applied 5 times daily for 4 days. This medicine ointment is usually applied 6 times daily for 7 days. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medication as soon as you can, yet avoid the missed dosage if it is practically time for your following dosage. Do not make use of two dosages at once.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of Zovirax Topical is not anticipated to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poisonous substance Customer service at 1-800-222-1222 if anybody has accidentally swallowed the medicine.

Avoid getting this drug in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If this does take place, wash with water. When treating a fever blister, apply the drug only to the external part of your lips.

Stay clear of using various other medications on the areas you treat with Zovirax Topical unless your physician informs you to.

Using Zovirax Topical will not avoid you from passing genital herpes to other people. Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other individuals even while you are making use of acyclovir.

Prevent intercourse or utilize a latex prophylactic to help keep you from spreading out the virus to others. Stay clear of allowing contaminated areas come into contact with other people. Avoid touching a contaminated location and then touching your eyes. Laundry your hands regularly to avoid the spread of infection.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

What other drugs will affect Zovirax Topical?

Medication used on the skin is not most likely to be influenced by various other medicines you utilize. Yet many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your doctor about all medicines you make use of, consisting of prescription and over the counter medicines, vitamins, and organic items.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Related medicines

Before you take this medicine: the information on this page is general and may not cover your personal circumstances. Read the label supplied with your medicine and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking other medicines or managing a long-term condition.
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Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.