Zovirax

Zovirax Drug Information

• Zovirax Overview

  Acyclovir is used to treat infections caused by certain types of viruses. It treats cold sores around the mouth (caused by herpes simplex), shingles (caused by herpes zoster), and chickenpox. Zovirax 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. Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. However, it is not a cure for these infections. The viruses that cause these infections continue to live in the body even between outbreaks. Acyclovir decreases the severity and length of these outbreaks. It helps the sores heal faster, keeps new sores from forming, and decreases pain/itching. Zovirax may also help reduce how long pain remains after the sores heal. In addition, in people with a weakened immune system, acyclovir can decrease the risk of the virus spreading to other parts of the body and causing serious infections.

• How to Use Zovirax

  Take Zovirax by mouth with or without food, usually 2 to 5 times a day as directed by your doctor. Drink plenty of fluids while taking Zovirax unless your doctor directs you otherwise. If you are using the liquid form of Zovirax, shake the bottle well before each dose. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. Zovirax works best when started at the first sign of an outbreak, as directed by your doctor. It may not work as well if you delay treatment. Dosage of Zovirax is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, Dosage of Zovirax is also based on weight. Zovirax works best when the amount of drug in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take Zovirax at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. Continue to take Zovirax until the full prescribed amount is finished. Do not change your dose, skip any doses, or stop Zovirax early without your doctor's approval. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

• Zovirax Precautions

  Before taking acyclovir, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to valacyclovir; or if you have any other allergies. Zovirax may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using Zovirax, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history,kidney problems, conditions related to a weakened immune system (such as HIV disease, bone marrow transplant, kidney transplant). Zovirax may rarely make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis). Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Do not have certain immunizations/vaccinations (such as vaccines against the varicella virus) without the consent of your doctor. Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug, especially kidney problems (change in the amount of urine, back/side pain), dizziness, drowsiness, and mental/mood changes (such as confusion, hallucinations, loss of consciousness). Acyclovir does not protect against the spread of genital herpes. To lower the chance of giving herpes to your partner, do not have sexual contact during an outbreak or if you have symptoms. You can spread genital herpes even if you do not have symptoms. Therefore, always use an effective barrier method (latex or polyurethane condoms/dental dams) during all sexual activity. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. During pregnancy, Zovirax should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Zovirax passes into breast milk. However, Zovirax is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

• Zovirax Misdose

  If you miss a dose of Zovirax, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

• Zovirax Interactions

  Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.other drugs that may cause kidney problems (including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs-NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen). Acyclovir is very similar to valacyclovir. Do not use medications containing valacyclovir while using acyclovir.

• Zovirax Side Effects

  What are Zovirax side effects?

  Side effects are physical, mental or emotional symptoms which occur in addition to or outside of the desired effect of a therapeutic treatment such as an over-the-counter or prescribed drug or medication. Side effects from Zovirax may occur at the beginning or at the end of treatment and may also depend on the length of time an individual remains on the treatment. Side effects, also known as adverse effects, are generally more likely to occur when starting treatment. Individuals may also experience side effects from Zovirax as a result of an interaction with other medications.

  Side Effects of Zovirax

  The side effects of Zovirax may vary in number and intensity for many different reasons. Factors such as age, weight, gender and ethnicity may influence the side effects of Zovirax. Also, an individual’s state of general physical health and seriousness of the disease or illness as well as an increase or decrease in dosage may lead to side effects. Further, side effects from Zovirax may also occur as a result of an interaction with certain herbal supplements, foods or drinks.

  Prescription drug side effects can be serious and may cause patients to stop the treatment. However, when side effects from the use of a prescription drug, such as Zovirax, do occur a patient should consult their physician. A physician may prescribe an additional treatment in order to control the symptoms or an adjustment in the dosage may be made. In addition, changes to diet, exercise or other lifestyle activities may help to lessen the side effects of Zovirax.

  By understanding side effects and the factors which may influence the occurrence of side effects patients are empowered to take an active role in their care. Patients who have specific questions about the side effects of Zovirax, or any other medication, should contact their physician. General information about Zovirax and the side effects associated with Zovirax are described in the following:

  Common Zovirax Side Effects

  Severe

  Less Severe

  • malaise

  Less Frequent Zovirax Side Effects

  Severe

  Less Severe

  • agitation
  • gastrointestinal irritation
  • alopecia
  • myalgias
  • drowsy
  • dizziness
  • paresthesia
  • headache disorder
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • abdominal pain with cramps

  Rare or Very Rare Zovirax Side Effects

  Severe

  • anemia
  • thrombocytopenic disorder
  • leukopenia
  • acute confusion
  • drug-induced psychosis
  • aggressive behavior
  • encephalopathy
  • visual changes
  • hepatitis
  • renal failure
  • hematuria
  • erythema multiforme
  • toxic epidermal necrolysis
  • Stevens-Johnson syndrome
  • pruritus of skin
  • urticaria
  • coma
  • delirium
  • hallucinations
  • seizure disorder
  • fever
  • skin rash
  • peripheral edema
  • hyperbilirubinemia
  • jaundice
  • dysarthria
  • lymphadenopathy
  • abnormal hepatic function tests
  • anaphylaxis
  • angioedema

  Less Severe

  • skin photosensitivity
  • tremor
  • ataxia
  • pain
  • renal pain

• Zovirax Storage

  Store at room temperature between 59-77 degrees F (15-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard Zovirax when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.