Acyclovir (Topical)

Brand Names : Zovirax, acycloguanosine

Category

• Antiviral, topical

Description

Acyclovir (ay-SYE-kloe-veer) belongs to the family of medicines called antivirals. Antivirals are used to treat infections caused by viruses. Usually they work for only one kind or group of virus infections.

Topical acyclovir is used to treat the symptoms of herpes simplex virus infections of the skin, mucous membranes, and genitals (sex organs). Although topical acyclovir will not cure herpes simplex, it may help relieve the pain and discomfort and may help the sores (if any) heal faster. Topical acyclovir may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Acyclovir is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms:

Topical
• Cream (Canada)
• Ointment (U.S. and Canada)

Brand Names

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S.—

• Zovirax

In Canada—

• Zovirax

Other commonly used names are acyclovir and acycloguanosine .