Pronounced: zoh-VIGH-racks

Generic : Acyclovir

Zovirax - Indications :
Zovirax liquid, capsules, and tablets, are used in the treatment of certain infections with herpes viruses. These include genital herpes, shingles, and chickenpox. This drug may not be appropriate for everyone, and its use should be thoroughly discussed with your doctor. Zovirax ointment is used to treat initial episodes of genital herpes and certain herpes simplex infections of the skin and mucous membranes.

Some doctors use Zovirax, along with other drugs, in the treatment of AIDS, and for unusual herpes infections such as those following kidney and bone marrow transplants.

More information on Zovirax :
Zovirax does not cure herpes. However, it does reduce pain and may help the sores caused by herpes to heal faster. Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease. To reduce the chance of infecting your partner, forgo intercourse and other sexual contact while you have sores or any other symptom.

How to take Zovirax :
Your medication should not be shared with others, and the prescribed dose should not be exceeded. Zovirax ointment should not be used in or near the eyes.

To reduce the risk of spreading the infection, use a rubber glove to apply the ointment.

You can take Zovirax with or without food.

Missed dose : Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

If you are using the ointment, apply it as soon as you remember and continue your regular schedule.

Storage : Store Zovirax at room temperature in a dry place.

Zovirax - Possible side effects :
Every medicine can cause certain side effects. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Zovirax.

 
• More common side effects may include : Diarrhea, general feeling of bodily discomfort, nausea, vomiting  
• Other reported side effects include : Aggressive behavior, agitation, allergic reactions, blood in the urine, coma, confusion, decreased consciousness, delirium, dizziness, fever, hair loss, hallucinations, headache, hives, itching, kidney failure, lack of coordination, pain, psychosis, rash, seizures, skin peeling, sleepiness, swelling, swollen face and throat, swollen lymph nodes, tingling, upset stomach, vision problems, yellowish skin and eyes  
• Common side effects of Zovirax ointment may include : Burning, itching, mild pain, skin rash, stinging, vaginal inflammation

Zovirax - Contraindications :
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Zovirax or similar drugs, you should not take this medication. Make sure that your doctor is aware of any drug reactions that you have experienced.

Zovirax - Warnings :
If you are being treated for a kidney disorder, consult your doctor before taking Zovirax. The drug has been known to cause kidney failure.

If you develop unusual bruising or bleeding under the skin, be sure to alert your doctor. It could signal a dangerous blood disorder.
Zovirax - Food and drug interactions :

If Zovirax is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Zovirax with the following:

Cyclosporine ( Sandimmune, Neoral )
Interferon (Roferon-A)
Probenecid (Benemid)
Zidovudine ( Retrovir )
Zovirax - Pregnant and breastfeeding women :

Zovirax seems relatively safe during pregnancy. Nevertheless, it should be used only if its benefits outweigh the potential risk to the baby. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Zovirax appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding your baby until your treatment with Zovirax is finished.

Zovirax - Dosage :
Adults : For Genital Herpes

The usual dose is one 200 mg capsule or 1 teaspoonful of liquid every 4 hours, 5 times daily for 10 days. If the herpes is recurrent, the usual adult dose is 400 mg (two 200 mg capsules, one 400 mg tablet or 2 teaspoonfuls) 2 times daily for up to 12 months.

If genital herpes is intermittent, the usual adult dose is one 200 mg capsule or 1 teaspoon of liquid every 4 hours, 5 times a day for 5 days. Therapy should be started at the earliest sign or symptom.

Ointment: Apply ointment to affected area every 3 hours, 6 times per day, for 7 days. Use enough ointment (approximately one-half inch ribbon of ointment per 4 square inches of surface area) to cover the affected area.

For Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

The usual adult dose is 800 mg (one 800 mg tablet or 4 teaspoonfuls of liquid) every 4 hours, 5 times daily for 7 to 10 days.

For Chickenpox:

The usual adult dose is 800 mg 4 times a day for 5 days.

If you have a kidney disorder, the dose will need to be adjusted by your doctor.

Children : the usual dose for chickenpox in children 2 years of age and older is 20 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight taken orally 4 times daily, for a total of 80 mg per 2.2 pounds, for 5 days. A child weighing more than 88 pounds should take the adult dose.

The safety and effectiveness of oral Zovirax have not been established in children under 2 years of age. However, your doctor may decide that the benefits of this medication outweigh the potential risks. The safety and effectiveness of Zovirax ointment in children have not been established.

Elderly adults : Your doctor will start you at the low end of the dosage range, since older adults are more apt to have kidney problems or other disease, or to be taking other medications.

Zovirax - Overdose :
Zovirax is generally safe. However, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

 
• Symptoms of Zovirax overdose may include : Agitation, kidney failure, lethargy, coma, seizures

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Drugs & Medications

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

The drug reference included in this section is provided by Cerner Multum, Inc., of Denver, Colorado. Armenian Medical Network receives monthly updates from Multum.