Zovirax

aciclovir

Zovirax (aciclovir) is used to treat herpes infections of the skin, mouth, brain, mucous membranes, genital herpes, herpes zoster (shingles), and chickenpox in some individuals. Zovirax does not cure herpes, but relieves the pain and may make the infection clear faster.

What is Zovirax?

Zovirax does not cure herpes infections but decreases pain and itching and promotes healing. Oral Zovirax decreases the frequency and severity of recurrent sores, but it is used only by people with severe herpes infections because of possible adverse effects. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Before taking Zovirax

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to Zovirax or valacyclovir (Valtrex). Before taking Zovirax, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have kidney disease. You may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

How should I take Zovirax?

Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually 2 to 5 times daily or as directed by your doctor. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. This medication works best when the amount of drug in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Treatment with acyclovir should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it and take any remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Zovirax side effects

Zovirax may cause stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea, lightheadedness, headache, dizziness, itching or rash. These effects should disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become worse, inform your doctor. Also notify your doctor if you have unusual tiredness or weakness, tremors, confusion, abdominal pain, change in amount of urine, increased thirst or vomiting.

An allergic reaction to Zovirax is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Avoid sexual activity while signs and symptoms of genital herpes are present to prevent infecting your partner. Inform your doctor if this medication does not appear to decrease the frequency or severity of recurrent infections.

Drug interactions

Before taking Zovirax, tell your doctor if you are also taking probenecid (Benemid). If you are using probenecid, you may not be able to use Zovirax, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment. There may be other drugs that can affect Zovirax. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Preganacy

Zovirax is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Herpes virus can be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. If you have genital herpes, it is very important to prevent herpes lesions during your pregnancy so that you do not have a genital lesion when your baby is born. Zovirax passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include sluggishness, change in amount of urine, loss of consciousness, or seizures.

Notes

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Zovirax. If you have any other questions about Zovirax, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.