Information on Zovirax Ointment
Zovirax is an antiviral drug with acyclovir as an active component. It is an antiviral medication used to fight against the diverse forms of herpes. Zovirax is available in many forms such as tablets, ointments, injection and suspension. The prescription of this drug will depend on the condition and the general health of the individual suffering from the virus and experiencing the outbreak of herpes.
Zovirax ointment is a prescription drug that is used for treatment of genital herpes and cold sores.
Zovirax ointment is made by Biovail Pharmaceuticals; it is not available in generic form and is totally different from the cream form.
Treatment
Zovirax is used for treatment of initial genital herpes infection (but not for subsequent outbreaks) in patients with normal immune systems.
It is also used to treat non-life threatening cols sores with individuals with weak immune systems especially those with HIV or AIDS.
Treatment of shingles can be done through taking of Zorivax in oral form because it has higher concentration of acyclovir than the one in the ointment form.
Zovirax treatment must be commenced within the first three days of the herpes zoster outbreak.
Use of Zovirax ointment is usually for the treatment of genital herpes. It helps to lessen the pain and length of herpes zoster, helps in making the virus less infectious and aids to lessen new lesions outbreaks.
Application of Zovirax ointment prevents the herpes simplex virus from spreading and multiplying.
Zovirax Ointment Side Effects
Zorivax ointment has common side effects such as:
- Mild pain (burning or tingling)
- Itching
- Nausea
- Vomitting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Confusion (hallucination)
- Rash (skin allergies)
- Anemia
- Agitation
Precautions
Zovirax may interact with other prescription drugs like phenytoin and theophylline. It is always advisable to tell your doctor if you are taking other medications before you will be prescribed with Zovirax.
Zorivax may have some possible allergic interactions and it should not be used to treat herpes eye infections.
It is also important to understand that a person who is infected with such viruses will never be cured. The virus will remain in their body until they become active again.
Zovirax Ointment Dosage
There is only one standard dosage for Zorivax ointment; regardless of the patient’s weight or age factors.
Zovirax Ointment Overdose
Overdose on Zovirax ointment may include seizures, agitation or lethargy.
Zovirax Ointment and Pregnancy/Breastfeeding
Zovirax is safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. No reports of any side effects have been documented so far.
