It treats cold sores around the mouth (caused by herpes simplex) , shingles (caused by herpes zoster), and chickenpox. This medication 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.
Why do you need a prescription for Zovirax?
Matt Wachsman , Universidad Militar Nueva Granada Answered Apr. Instead, one needs a prescription from a medical provider first. The cream contains the unique antiviral agent Aciclovir which prevents the cold sore virus from replicating .
What is Zovirax good for?
This medication is used to treat “cold sores/fever blisters” (herpes labialis) . It can speed up healing of the sores and decrease symptoms (such as tingling, pain, burning, itching). Acyclovir belongs to a class of medications known as antivirals.
Is Zovirax an antibiotic?
Zovirax (acyclovir) is an antiviral drug . Acyclovir slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus in the body. Zovirax is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, such as genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chickenpox.
Does Zovirax really work?
Zovirax Cream has an average rating of 7.4 out of 10 from a total of 33 ratings for the treatment of Cold Sores. 67% of reviewers reported a positive effect , while 24% reported a negative effect.
Does Zovirax require a prescription?
Zovirax Cream is a prescription medicine used to treat the symptoms of cold sores (Herpes Labialis) and Genital Herpes. Zovirax Cream may be used alone or with other medications. Zovirax Cream belongs to a class of drugs called Antivirals.
When should I stop using Zovirax?
Use it for no more than 4 days . If your symptoms do not improve after 4 days of treatment with ZOVIRAX Cold Sore Cream, you should tell your doctor. If you forget to use the cream at any time, use it as soon as you remember.
What are side effects of Zovirax?
- nausea,
- vomiting,
- diarrhea,
- loss of appetite,
- stomach pain,
- headache,
- lightheadedness,
- swelling in your hands and feet,
Does acyclovir weaken immune system?
We studied the immune response to CMV in patients who were taking acyclovir to assess if therapy could be used to suppress the CMV-specific immune response. The T cell reactivity against the immunodominant late viral protein pp65 was reduced by 53% in people who were taking acyclovir.
How quickly does Zovirax pills work?
Response and effectiveness. May take up to two hours to reach peak plasma concentrations after oral acyclovir administration. May take up to three days for symptom reduction; however, acyclovir should be taken until the course prescribed is completed. Acyclovir works best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Who should not take acyclovir?
You should not take acyclovir buccal tablets (Sitavig) if you are allergic to milk proteins . Tell your doctor if you have ever had: kidney disease; or. a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine).
It treats cold sores around the mouth (caused by herpes simplex), shingles (caused by herpes zoster), and chickenpox. This medication 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 .
What happens if you use too much Zovirax?
What happens if I swallow some Zovirax Cold Sore Cream? If you accidentally use too much or swallow the cream, it is unlikely that any untoward effects would occur . However, if you swallow a large amount of the cream, it is recommended that you speak to a doctor or pharmacist.
Does toothpaste help cold sores?
According to the Wound Care Society, applying toothpaste to cold sores during their blister phase may make the area numb, dry out the blisters , and keep them from getting larger. Most toothpaste contains Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), an ingredient believed to hinder cold sore blisters.
How do I stop getting cold sores?
- Avoid the things that trigger your cold sores, such as stress and colds or the flu.
- Always use lip balm and sunscreen on your face. ...
- Avoid sharing towels, razors, silverware, toothbrushes, or other objects that a person with a cold sore may have used.
Is Zovirax a steroid?
Is acyclovir (Zovirax) a steroid or immunosuppressant? No, acyclovir (Zovirax) is an antiviral medication, not a steroid . It's sometimes prescribed for people taking immunosuppressants to prevent an outbreak while their immune system is lowered.
