Zovirax Oral

Brand Name:Apo-Acyclovir, Gen-Acyclovir, Nu-Acyclovir, Zovirax Cream, Zovirax Ointment

Prescription needed: Yes

What is this drug used for?

Acyclovir is used to treat the symptoms of infections caused by the herpes virus, such as genital herpes. As well, it is used to prevent infections from coming back. It is also used to treat varicella-zoster virus (chickenpox) and herpes zoster (shingles).

Acyclovir does not cure genital herpes infections. Acyclovir helps relieve symptoms of genital herpes, such as pain and itching, helps sores to heal more quickly and prevents new ones from forming. For shingles, acyclovir should be started within 72 hours of the appearance of the rash in order for it to work. Acyclovir will not prevent postherpetic neuralgias.

Is there any reason not to take this drug?

It is important to disclose your medical history, including any pre-existing conditions. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to acyclovir or similar medications such as valacyclovir and if you have or have ever had:

  • kidney disease (decrease dose of acyclovir may be necessary)
  • liver disease
  • problems with your immune system (dosage adjustment may be necessary)
  • HIV or AIDS (dosage adjustment may be necessary)
  • nerve problems

What about possible side effects?

Tell your doctor of any and all side effects that you experience while taking this drug, including:

  • lightheadedness
  • headache
  • nausea
  • upset stomach
  • vomiting
  • not feeling hungry
  • mild pain, burning, stinging, or itching (cream)

Contact your doctor immediately if you have any of these more serious side effects:

  • change in urination (difficulty urinating, dark coloured or concentrated urine as this may be a sign of kidney problems)
  • rash
  • itching
  • confusion
  • yellowness of the skin or eyes
  • fever

This is not a complete list of side effects. If you are concerned about these or other unusual symptoms while taking this medication, ask your doctor and/or pharmacist for more information and advice.

What if I am taking other drugs?

Always provide your doctor with a list of all the other drugs you are taking (including over-the-counter medications and herbal/natural products) as they may interact with another drug, increasing or decreasing effectiveness and safety of either or both medications. Tell your doctor specifically if you are taking:
  • other medications that can cause kidney problems: talk to your doctor or pharmacist
  • zidovudine - may increase the chances for lightheadedness and/or headache
  • probenecid - may increase the chances for increased lightheadedness and/or headache

Other information:

Special Instructions: Do not have sexual intercourse when you can see the genital herpes lesions. This medication will not decrease the likelihood that you will give your partner genital herpes when the herpes lesions are present. However, genital herpes can be spread even when you are not experiencing any symptoms.

Laboratory Tests: Your doctor will likely order blood and urine tests before he/she starts this medication and periodically thereafter to check that this medication is not causing any side effects.

Children: Reduced dose may be necessary.

Seniors: Reduced dose may be necessary.

Pregnant women: Inform your doctor if you are or intend to become pregnant. Your doctor will determine if the benefits of the use of this medication outweigh possible risks.

Women who are nursing: Acyclovir enters breast milk. Acyclovir is compatible with breast feeding. Talk with your doctor if you plan to breast feed your baby while taking this medication.

People who drive or operate machinery: Should not do so until they know how this drug affects them personally - acyclovir may cause lightheadedness or dizziness.

Alcohol: No known problems. If you drink, always drink in moderation.

Overdose: If you experience any unusual reactions or if you seriously exceed the recommended dosage, call your doctor or 911.

Stopping the drug: Do not stop taking this drug until you have taken the prescribed amount, even if you are feeling better.

If you miss a dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it and take any remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose.

Storage conditions: Closed container; cool, dry location away from excess moisture (e.g. not in the bathroom) and light; always keep out of the reach of children.

Dietary precautions: Drink plenty of water (2-3 litres per day of fluids), unless told otherwise by your doctor, while on acyclovir.