What is Zovirax Tablets Used for?
Zorivax tablet is an antiviral medication treatment for infections brought by herpes viruses such as herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (virus that causes genital herpes), cold sores and Varicella zoster virus (that causes shingles and chickenpox). Aciclovir, which is the active ingredient of Zorivax, works by preventing these herpes viruses from multiplying and thus affecting more cells in the body.
Diseases treated by Zovirax Tablets:
- Encephalitis (Viral Encephalitis)
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV, Cold Sores, Genital Sores, Genital Ulcers)
- Chickenpox (varicella zoster infection)
- Shingles (herpes zoster)
- Genital herpes (herpes simplex infection)
- Herpes simplex infections of the skin, such as cold sores
- Preventing recurrence of herpes simplex infections, like persistent cold sores or genital herpes.
- Preventing herpes simplex infections in people with weak immune system, that maybe due to certain diseases or medical treatment.
- Management of patients suffering from advanced HIV infection
Side Effects of Zorivax Tablets:
Like any other medications, Zorivax tablet also has it adverse side effects, but most are too common and do not need immediate attention. There are some though that may seem risky and when they occur you must consult you doctor at once.
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea with vomiting
- Recurring headache
- Vertigo (dizziness)
- Joint pains
- Gastrointestinal disorder (abdominal pain)
- Fever
Uncommon Side Effects:
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Ankles and lower legs inflammation
- Skin allergy
- Leg pain
- Sore throat
- Irritability (bad temper)
- Loss of focus
- Hallucinations (delusion)
- Chest pains
- Palpitations of the heart
- Constipation
- Convulsion (seizure)
- Sleep disturbance
- Shortness of breath
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and the white parts of the eyes)
- Kidney pain
Precautions:
- Follow the prescription religiously and complete the medication unless otherwise advised by your to stop.
- Since genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease, it is highly advisable that persons with such infection should avoid sexual intercourse even when taking this medication to stop the infection.
- People suffering from kidney failure should use this drug with great caution.
- Before taking this medication, you have to be sure that you are not allergic to its active ingredient, Acyclovir.
- If you experience some allergic reactions, stop taking the drug and inform your doctor immediately.
- Though there have been no reports on the effect on pregnancy, you should inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy before taking this drug.
