About Zovirax

Zovirax is an antiviral medicine. Its main potency lies in its ability to hamper the growth and spreading of the herpes virus, in order for the body to have the help it needs in fighting the infection.

Uses or Indications

Zovirax is used for the treatment of infections, as caused by the herpes virus. Diseases which are associated with the herpes virus include chickenpox, genital herpes, shingles, and cold sores on the lips and the face. Zovirax does not necessarily cure the infection, but reduces the pain or itching which is associated with it, and also promotes healing.

How to Use Zovirax

Treatment with the medication should ideally commence as soon as the initial symptoms of the disease present themselves (such as blisters, or a tingling and burning sensation on the affected area). Wash the hands before and after treatment, and wear a hand glove, or employ an applicator when using the medication to treat the affected area; this is a safety measure against the possibility of cross-contamination of the virus to other areas of the skin, or to other people. Applications should totally cover the lesions; these are made every three hours, six times a day, for a period of seven days.

Possible Side Effects

There are no reported severe effects from the use of Zovirax; in case of an allergic reaction, get immediate medical help. Otherwise maintain treatment and consult a doctor if symptoms such as a rash, or an itching, burning, and stinging sensation appear.

Drug Precautions

Avoid cross-contamination of the virus to other parts of the body. Herpes infections are highly contagious and may even infect other people, even during treatment. Wash the hands frequently before and after every treatment of the affected area. Individuals who are allergic to Zovirax are strongly discouraged from using the drug. Pregnant women, or those who are planning on pregnancy, should consult with a physician regarding the disease, as the herpes virus can be passed on from the infected mother, and into an unborn child. The drug also passes on into breast milk and may have adverse effects on the health of a nursing infant.

Drug Interaction

Patients who plan on using Zovirax for treatment should inform their doctor beforehand if they are currently taking probenecid. If such is the case, they be unable to take Zovirax, as it may interact with the medication; otherwise they may require an adjustment in the dosage, or special tests may be conducted during the treatment to assess the patient`s response to the medication.

Missed Dose

Make up for the missed application as soon as it is remembered, and then make the succeeding applications with three-hour intervals, commencing from the one made for the missed application.

Overdose

An overdose of Zovirax is unlikely to occur. If excessive applications of the medication are made, or if the drug is ingested, contact a doctor, or a local poison management center for medical help. Symptoms of a possible overdose of Zovirax can include infrequency or an inability to urinate, hallucinations, and convulsions.

Storage

Store Zovirax in temperatures below 25°, but well above freezing temperature. Do not refrigerate the drug.