Acyclovir Topical -Zovirax - Drugs Information, Side Effects, & Interactions

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Acyclovir (ay-SYE-kloe-veer)

Treats skin disorders caused by the herpes virus, including genital herpes.

Zovirax
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to acyclovir.

Cream, Ointment

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to apply and how often. Do not use more medicine or apply it more often than your doctor tells you to.
This medicine is for use on the skin or genitals (vagina or penis) only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine. Use a rubber glove when you apply the medicine. If someone else is putting this medicine on you, he or she should wear a rubber glove.
Use this ointment as soon as possible after you notice the beginning of a herpes sore (pain, burning, blisters, or itching).
Acyclovir ointment may be put on the herpes sores every 3 hours, 6 times daily for 7 days, unless your doctor tells you differently. Apply enough ointment to cover all the sores.

If a dose is missed:

If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, apply it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to apply the medicine and skip the missed dose.
Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Do not use any other medicine on your herpes sores unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.
Acyclovir will not stop the spread of herpes during sex. Avoid having sex while you have herpes sores.
Even if you have no signs of a herpes infection, it is still possible to spread the virus to others during sex. Talk with your doctor about ways to keep from spreading the virus.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Itching, redness, swelling, burning, or stinging of the skin where the ointment is applied

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