Drug Uses

Zovirax is used to treat, or prevent infections from oral and genital herpes, or varicella-zoster viruses. These are also known as cold sores, sexually transmitted herpes, chicken-pox, and shingles.

General Information

This database does not contain every known side effect, adverse effect, or drug interaction. If you have questions about your medicines, contact your health care provider. This information is for educational purposes only.

How Drug Works

Zovirax stops the replication of herpes viruses by blocking the formation of its genetic materials.

How Taken

This medicine is taken orally and may be taken by mouth with food in stomach upset occurs. For herpes outbreaks, patients are generally given 800 mg 5 times daily for 7 to 10 days. For repeat infections dosages are usually 200 mg given 5 times daily for 5 days. This medicine comes in an ointment form. The ointment is used on the affected area usually every 3 hours ( 6 times per day) for 7 days. Take the full course of this medicine as directed.

Possible Side Effects

Some common side effects reported with this medicine include insomnia, headache, feeling tired, stomach upset, rash. If you experience other bothersome side effects, contact your health care provider.

Warnings/Precautions

Patients with a history of liver or kidney disease and with existing neurological problems should use this medicine with with caution.

Overdose

For emergencies, seek medical attention immediately. For non emergencies, contact your local or regional poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

Drug Interactions

This medication may interact with other drugs used to treat viral infections. Talk to your pharmacist or physician if you are taking this with other drugs.

Missed Dose

Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double dosages.

Storage

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).

Pregnancy/Nursing

Talk to your doctor or pediatrician before using this medicine while nursing. Use during pregnancy should only occur if the potential benefits outweigh the possible risk to the fetus.

More Information

For more information, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or health care provider.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose, it should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. CompletePills disclaims all responsibility for the accuracy of, and reliability of this information, and or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to the contents of this material.