What is the drug Zovirax used for?

It treats cold sores around the mouth (caused by herpes simplex), shingles (caused by herpes zoster), and chickenpox. This medication is also used to treat outbreaks of genital herpes. In people with frequent outbreaks, acyclovir is used to help reduce the number of future episodes.

Is Zovirax an antibiotic?

Zovirax is an antiviral drug. Acyclovir slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus in the body. Zovirax is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, such as genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chickenpox. Zovirax will not cure herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection.

What is Zovirax generic name?

Acyclovir (Zovirax) is an antiviral medication used for the treatment of herpes, shingles, and chickenpox. It comes in many different formulations including a capsule, oral and buccal tablet, and topical cream or ointment.

What is the chemical class of acyclovir?

According to the Biopharmaceutical Classification System (BCS), aciclovir falls under the BCS Class III drug i.e. soluble with low intestinal permeability.

Is Zovirax a prescription drug?

ZOVIRAX Cream is a prescription medicine used to treat cold sores (herpes labialis) that are recurring in adults and children 12 years of age and older, and who have normal immune systems. ZOVIRAX Cream is not a cure for cold sores.

What is the mode of action of acyclovir?

Acyclovir triphosphate competitively inhibits viral DNA polymerase by acting as an analog to deoxyguanosine triphosphate (dGTP). Incorporation of acyclovir triphosphate into DNA results in chain termination since the absence of a 3′ hydroxyl group prevents the attachment of additional nucleosides.

Is aciclovir a steroid?

Herpes labialis: a topical antiviral drug perhaps, but not a steroid.

What is the use and BCS class of drug acyclovir?

According to the Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) and considering tablet strengths up to 400 mg, aciclovir would be BCS Class III. However, in some countries also 800 mg tablets are available which fall just within BCS Class IV.

How quickly does Zovirax work?

IF USED AT THE FIRST SIGN, ZOVIRAX COULD GET YOU BACK TO BEING YOU IN AS LITTLE AS 3 DAYS*. *In 25% of users. Median healing time is 4 days.

How long should you use Zovirax for?

Continue treating with Zovirax Cold Sore Cream for at least 4 days. If healing has not occurred, treatment may be continued for up to 10 days. If the cold sore persists after 10 days, talk to your healthcare professional.

How long should you take Zovirax?

Use the cream for at least 5 days. If the genital herpes sore has not healed by then, you can carry on using the cream for another 5 days. If the affected area has still not healed after a total of 10 days, stop using the cream and tell your doctor.

Does Zovirax stop cold sores?

If you have any further questions, ask your pharmacist. Zovirax is used for the treatment of cold sores. The active ingredient is aciclovir, an antiviral agent. Apply at the first signs of a cold sore (such as tingling and itching).

How many times can you apply Zovirax?

Clean and dry the affected areas before applying the medication. Apply to the affected area and rub in gently, usually 5 times a day (every 3 to 4 hours) for 4 days for cold sores, or as directed by your doctor. Apply enough cream to cover all affected areas (red/tingling/burning areas, sores). Apply to skin only.

What is the best way to use Zovirax?

Apply Zovirax Cold Sore Cream to the affected area five times a day at approximately four hourly intervals for four days. Wash your hands, apply the cream with a cotton swab or your fingers and wash your hands again. Use enough to completely cover the sore and the surrounding area.

Do antivirals weaken immune system?

The inhibitory effects of antivirals on immune cells may contribute to the immune deterioration observed in patients following prolonged use of the drugs.

Can you put Zovirax on vagina?

Zovirax Cold Sore cream should only be used on cold sores on the mouth and face. It is not recommended for application to mucous membranes, such as in the mouth or eye and must not be used to treat genital herpes.

Can you put Zovirax on broken skin?

If your cold sore has already broken through the skin then treatment with Zovirax Cold Sore Cream can speed up the healing process.