Important Information about Zovirax Cream
Zovirax cream is formulated for the treatment of persistent herpes simplex infections like cold sores and genital herpes, which most commonly affects adults and adolescents from 12 years above. This medication can be bought with prescription only.
How Does Zovirax Work
The active ingredient of this medication is called Aciclovir, which is an antiviral formulation very effective for the treatment of skin infection brought by herpes simplex virus like; cold sores and genital herpes, which is caused by type 1 and 2 of herpes simplex virus.
Aciclovir in Zovirax stops the virus from multiplying and therefore infecting more cells. Once applied, aciclovir works by blocking DNA polymerase, a viral enzyme that duplicates the genetic materials of the herpes virus from RNA to DNA; this is the process needed for the virus to reproduce and to survive continuously.
By blocking the action of DNA polymerase, aciclovir will be able to prevent the reproduction of the herpes virus thus controlling the infection from further spreading and giving the immune system much power to deal with the infection on its own.
Zovirax cream is most effective when used as the first sign of the infection.
Common Side Effects of Zovirax Cream:
Drugs and their possible side effects can affect different people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that have been reported to be associated with this medication. Just because a side effect was reported, it does not necessarily mean that all users of this medicine will experience one or more of them.
- swelling (angioedema),
- shedding of skin surface
- cracked lips
- Fleeting stinging or burning sensation after applying the cream.
- Mild drying or flaking of the affected area where the cream is applied.
- Itching at the certain areas of application.
- Reddening of the skin due to widening of the small blood vessels (erythema).
- Allergic swelling of the affected area (contact dermatitis).
Precautions:
- Use this cream for external application only; not suitable for application inside the mouth, eyes or vagina.
- Always wash your hands before and after the application.
- If accidentally applied on the eyes, rinse with water immediately.
- After 10 days of continuous use and the infection ahs not cleared up, consult your doctor.
- This cream should be used with caution during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
- Do not self-medicate, always ask for medical advice before using any sort of treatment.
