Zovirax: Effective Antiviral Treatment for Herpes Infections
Zovirax
| Product dosage: 200mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 180 | $0.29 | $52.00 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $0.26
Best per pill | $104.00 $93.00 (11%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| Product dosage: 400mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 60 | $0.90 | $54.00 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 90 | $0.81 | $81.00 $73.00 (10%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $0.77 | $108.00 $92.00 (15%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $0.72 | $162.00 $129.00 (20%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $0.69 | $243.00 $185.00 (24%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $0.67
Best per pill | $324.00 $242.00 (25%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| Product dosage: 800mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 30 | $2.93 | $88.00 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 60 | $2.22 | $176.00 $133.00 (24%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 90 | $1.98 | $264.00 $178.00 (33%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $1.88 | $352.00 $225.00 (36%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $1.75 | $528.00 $315.00 (40%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $1.67 | $792.00 $451.00 (43%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $1.63
Best per pill | $1056.00 $587.00 (44%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Synonyms | |||
Similar products
Zovirax (acyclovir) is a pioneering antiviral medication specifically formulated to manage infections caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). As a nucleoside analogue DNA polymerase inhibitor, it targets viral replication with precision, offering both therapeutic and suppressive benefits. This medication is available in multiple formulations, including oral tablets, topical cream, and intravenous injection, to address a spectrum of clinical presentations from initial outbreaks to recurrent episodes. Trusted by healthcare professionals for decades, Zovirax remains a cornerstone in antiviral therapy due to its proven efficacy and well-documented safety profile.
Features
- Active ingredient: Acyclovir
- Available formulations: 200mg, 400mg, 800mg oral tablets; 5% topical cream; intravenous injection
- Mechanism: Selective inhibition of viral DNA polymerase
- Targets: Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV-1, HSV-2), varicella-zoster virus (VZV)
- Prescription-only medication in most regions
- Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical quality standards
Benefits
- Reduces the duration and severity of acute herpes outbreaks
- Decreases the frequency of recurrent episodes with suppressive therapy
- Lowers risk of viral transmission to partners when used appropriately
- Alleviates pain and discomfort associated with herpetic lesions
- Helps prevent complications in immunocompromised patients
- Available in multiple formulations for tailored treatment approaches
Common use
Zovirax is primarily indicated for the treatment of herpes simplex virus infections, including genital herpes, cold sores (herpes labialis), and herpes whitlow. It is also approved for the management of herpes zoster (shingles) and chickenpox (varicella) in specific patient populations. In immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, Zovirax serves as both treatment and prophylaxis against herpes infections. Off-label uses may include prevention of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in transplant recipients and management of herpes simplex encephalitis, though these applications require specialist supervision.
Dosage and direction
Oral Tablets:
- Initial genital herpes: 200mg every 4 hours while awake (5 times daily) for 10 days
- Chronic suppressive therapy: 400mg twice daily for up to 12 months
- Herpes zoster: 800mg every 4 hours while awake (5 times daily) for 7-10 days
- Chickenpox (children ≥2 years): 20mg/kg (max 800mg) four times daily for 5 days
Topical Cream:
- Apply sufficient quantity to cover affected area 5 times daily at approximately 4-hour intervals
- Treatment should begin at earliest sign or symptom and continue for 4 days
Intravenous:
- 5-10mg/kg every 8 hours for 7-10 days in adults with normal renal function
- Dosage adjustment required for renal impairment
All dosages should be determined by a healthcare provider based on individual patient factors.
Precautions
Patients should maintain adequate hydration during treatment to prevent crystalluria. Renal function should be monitored in those with pre-existing renal impairment or those receiving concomitant nephrotoxic drugs. Use with caution in elderly patients due to age-related decline in renal function. Topical formulation is for external use only and should not be applied to mucous membranes or eyes. Patients should be advised that Zovirax does not eliminate the virus or prevent transmission to others, though it may reduce this risk. Sun protection is recommended as sunlight may trigger recurrent outbreaks.
Contraindications
Zovirax is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any component of the formulation. The intravenous formulation is contraindicated in patients with underlying neurological abnormalities that might predispose to encephalopathic changes. Topical cream should not be used on immunocompromised patients for prevention of recurrent HSV infections. Use during pregnancy should be carefully considered, weighing potential benefits against risks, though no adequate well-controlled studies exist in pregnant women.
Possible side effect
Common side effects include headache (approximately 12% of patients), nausea (8%), diarrhea (6%), and vomiting (5%). Topical application may cause mild pain, burning, or stinging at application site (approximately 30% of users). Less frequently, neurological symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, or hallucinations may occur, particularly with intravenous administration or in elderly patients. Renal impairment may manifest as elevated creatinine levels. Rare but serious adverse effects include thrombocytopenic purpura, hemolytic uremic syndrome, and anaphylaxis. Hepatic enzyme elevations have been reported in approximately 1-2% of patients.
Drug interaction
Probenecid may decrease acyclovir clearance and increase plasma concentrations. Concurrent use with other nephrotoxic drugs (aminoglycosides, cyclosporine, NSAIDs) may enhance the risk of renal toxicity. Zidovudine may potentiate fatigue and lethargy when co-administered with acyclovir. The intravenous formulation may interact with interferons, increasing neurotoxicity risk. Monitoring is recommended when used with medications that compete for renal tubular secretion.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. For topical formulation, apply as soon as remembered and continue with regular schedule. Consistent dosing is important for optimal efficacy, particularly during acute outbreaks.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include agitation, coma, seizures, and renal impairment. Management includes supportive care and hydration to prevent precipitation of acyclovir in renal tubules. Hemodialysis significantly enhances acyclovir removal (approximately 60% reduction in plasma concentrations over 6 hours). In cases of recent ingestion, gastric lavage may be considered. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15-30°C/59-86°F) in original container. Protect from moisture and light. Keep tightly closed when not in use. Do not freeze. Oral tablets should be kept in blister packs until administration. Topical cream should not be exposed to extreme temperatures. Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets. Dispose of expired medication properly according to local regulations.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Zovirax is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual results may vary, and not all patients will experience the same benefits. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage and administration. Report any adverse effects to your physician immediately. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Reviews
Clinical studies demonstrate that Zovirax reduces healing time by approximately 2 days in primary genital herpes and 1 day in recurrent episodes. Suppressive therapy shows 75-80% reduction in recurrence frequency among patients with frequent outbreaks. Dermatological assessments indicate significant improvement in lesion crusting and healing with topical formulation. Patient-reported outcomes show meaningful reduction in pain severity and duration. Long-term safety data support continued use for up to 10 years in immunocompetent patients. Healthcare providers consistently rate Zovirax as a first-line choice for herpes management due to its predictable efficacy and manageable side effect profile.