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Brand Name(s):Zovirax
There may be other brand names for this medicine. When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to acyclovir. How to Use This Medicine:
Cream, Ointment
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
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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to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
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Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and never share your medicine with anyone.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid:
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine,
including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
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Do not use any other medicine on your herpes sores unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
Warnings While Using This Medicine:
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Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.
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Acyclovir will not stop the spread of herpes during sex. Avoid having sex while you have herpes sores.
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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.
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
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Itching, redness, swelling, burning, or stinging of the skin where the ointment is applied
Before using
INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.
Directions
Follow the directions for using Zovirax provided by your doctor. TAKE Zovirax with food or milk if it upsets your stomach. STORE Zovirax at room temperature, away from light and moisture. TO CLEAR UP YOUR INFECTION COMPLETELY, continue taking Zovirax for the full course of treatment even if you feel better in a few days. Do not miss any doses. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF Zovirax, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Cautions
IF YOUR SYMPTOMS DO NOT IMPROVE WITHIN A FEW DAYS or if they become worse, check with your doctor. IF YOU ARE USING Zovirax FOR GENITAL HERPES, begin using it as soon as you notice symptoms (pain, burning, blisters) of an infection. Use a condom during sexual intercourse. IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Zovirax during pregnancy. If you are or may be pregnant, check with your doctor for instructions on using Zovirax during pregnancy. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. Zovirax IS EXCRETED IN BREAST MILK. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using Zovirax, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.
Possible side effects
SIDE EFFECTS, that may go away during treatment, include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or headache. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
Drug interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Use our drug interaction checker to find out if your medicines interact with each other. Check drug interactions
If you take too much
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Additional information
DO NOT SHARE Zovirax with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE Zovirax for other health conditions. KEEP Zovirax out of the reach of children. IF USING Zovirax FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
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