Zovirax: Effective Antiviral Treatment for Herpes Infections
Zovirax
| Product dosage: 200mg | |||
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| Product dosage: 400mg | |||
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| Product dosage: 800mg | |||
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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 solutions, to address a spectrum of clinical presentations from initial outbreaks to chronic suppression. Its well-established efficacy and safety profile have made it a cornerstone in antiviral therapy for decades.
Features
- Contains the active ingredient acyclovir, a synthetic purine nucleoside analogue
- Available in oral (200mg, 400mg, 800mg tablets), topical (5% cream), and intravenous formulations
- Specifically inhibits viral DNA polymerase, halting replication of herpes viruses
- Demonstrated high bioavailability in oral form when taken as directed
- Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical quality control standards
- Multiple generic equivalents available, ensuring accessibility
Benefits
- Rapid reduction in viral shedding and lesion formation during active outbreaks
- Decreased duration and severity of symptoms, including pain and itching
- Effective suppression of recurrent genital herpes episodes with chronic use
- Reduction in risk of transmission to partners when used suppressive therapy
- Prevention of herpes-related complications in immunocompromised patients
- Well-tolerated profile with minimal disruption to daily activities
Common use
Zovirax is primarily indicated for the treatment of herpes simplex virus infections, including initial and recurrent episodes of genital herpes, herpes labialis (cold sores), and herpes keratitis (ocular herpes). It is also approved for the treatment of herpes zoster (shingles) and chickenpox (varicella) in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients. Off-label uses include prophylaxis against herpes reactivation in transplant recipients and HIV-positive individuals, as well as management of herpes encephalitis and neonatal herpes infections under specialist supervision.
Dosage and direction
Oral Tablets:
- Genital herpes (initial): 200mg every 4 hours while awake (5 times daily) for 10 days
- Genital herpes (recurrent): 200mg every 4 hours while awake (5 times daily) for 5 days
- Chronic suppression: 400mg twice daily or 200mg three times daily
- Herpes zoster: 800mg every 4 hours while awake (5 times daily) for 7-10 days
- Chickenpox: 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:
- Administered by healthcare professionals only
- Dosage varies by indication and patient status (5-10mg/kg every 8 hours)
All formulations should be used exactly as prescribed, with oral tablets taken with plenty of water. Topical application requires thorough hand washing before and after use to prevent autoinoculation or transmission.
Precautions
Patients should maintain adequate hydration during treatment to prevent crystalluria, particularly with higher doses or intravenous administration. Renal function should be monitored in elderly patients, those with pre-existing renal impairment, or those receiving concomitant nephrotoxic drugs. Topical application should avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. Immunocompromised patients may require extended treatment durations and closer monitoring for potential viral resistance. Pregnancy and breastfeeding require careful risk-benefit assessment under medical supervision.
Contraindications
Zovirax is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any component of the formulation. The intravenous form is contraindicated in patients with underlying neurological abnormalities that predispose to encephalopathic changes. Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <10 mL/min) requires dosage adjustment or alternative treatment options. Concomitant use with other nephrotoxic agents should be avoided unless absolutely necessary and closely monitored.
Possible side effect
Common side effects include headache (approximately 10% of patients), nausea (5-8%), diarrhea (2-5%), and vomiting (2-3%). 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 in elderly patients or those with renal impairment. Rare but serious adverse effects include thrombocytopenic purpura, hemolytic uremic syndrome, acute renal failure, and hepatotoxicity. Any signs of allergic reaction (rash, urticaria, swelling) require immediate medical attention.
Drug interaction
Probenecid significantly reduces acyclovir renal clearance, potentially increasing plasma concentrations and risk of adverse effects. Concurrent use with other nephrotoxic agents (aminoglycosides, cyclosporine, NSAIDs) may enhance renal toxicity. Zidovudine may potentiate fatigue and lethargy when co-administered with acyclovir. Intravenous administration with solutions containing biological electrolytes or parenteral nutrition requires compatibility testing. Monitoring of drug levels and renal function is recommended when using with interacting medications.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. For topical formulation, apply the missed dose when remembered and then resume the regular schedule. Maintaining consistent dosing intervals is crucial for optimal antiviral efficacy, particularly during active outbreaks. Patients should contact their healthcare provider if multiple doses are missed or if uncertainty exists about proper dosing schedule.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include agitation, coma, seizures, and renal impairment. Elevated BUN and serum creatinine levels may indicate nephrotoxicity. Management includes supportive care and hydration to ensure adequate renal function and prevent crystalluria. Hemodialysis significantly enhances acyclovir elimination (approximately 60% reduction in plasma half-life) and should be considered in cases of significant overdose, particularly in patients with pre-existing renal compromise. There is no specific antidote for acyclovir overdose.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in original container, protected from light and moisture. Keep oral tablets in tightly closed containers. Topical cream should not be frozen. Do not use beyond expiration date printed on packaging. Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets. Do not transfer between containers as this may affect stability and potency. Intravenous solutions should be prepared by qualified healthcare personnel following aseptic techniques and used immediately after reconstitution.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional based on specific clinical circumstances. Dosage and administration may vary based on patient factors including age, renal function, and immunological status. Not all possible uses, precautions, or interactions are listed here. Patients should disclose their complete medical history and current medications to their prescribing physician.
Reviews
Clinical studies demonstrate Zovirax reduces healing time for initial genital herpes episodes by 3-5 days compared to placebo (Corey et al., 1983). Long-term suppression studies show 70-80% reduction in recurrence frequency with chronic therapy (Mertz et al., 1988). Patient-reported outcomes indicate significant improvement in quality of life measures, particularly reduction in pain and emotional distress associated with recurrent outbreaks. Dermatological assessments confirm excellent local tolerance of topical formulation with minimal systemic absorption. The development of viral resistance remains uncommon in immunocompetent hosts (<1%) but may reach 5-10% in severely immunocompromised patients after extended therapy.