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Why is this medication prescribed?
Zovirax is used to treat herpes infections of the skin, lip, and genitals; herpes zoster (shingles); and chickenpox. It does not cure herpes infections but decreases pain and itching and promotes heal
ing.
Topical Zovirax does not prevent the recurrence of sores but may decrease pain and itching if applied when the earliest symptoms first appear. Oral Zovirax decreases the frequency and se
verity of recurrent sores, but it is used only by people with severe herpes infections because of possible adverse effects.
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Side Effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Zovirax.
Common side effects of Zovirax ointment may include:
- Burning, itching, mild pain, skin rash, stinging, vaginal inflammation
Side effects of Zovirax cream may include:
- Alle
rgic reactions, burning, dry or cracked lips, dry or flaky skin, eczema (inflamed, irritated patches of skin), hives, inflammation, itchy spots, stinging
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Other Medicines
If Zovirax is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Zovirax with the fo
llowing:
- Cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral)
- Interferon (Roferon-A)
- Probenecid (Benemid)
- Zidovudine (Retrovir)
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What special precautions should I follow?
Herpes infection of the genitals can be caught from or spread to your partner during any sexual activity. Even though you may get herpes if your partner has no symptoms, the infection is more likely t
o be spread if sores are present. This is true until the sores are completely healed and the scabs have fallen off. Therefore, it is best to avoid any sexual activity if either you or your sexual part
ner has any symptoms of herpes. The use of a latex condom (ˇ§rubberˇ¨') may help prevent the spread of herpes. However, spermicidal (sperm-killing) jelly or a diaphragm will probably not help.
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Proper Use of This Medicine
If you are using tablets, capsules, or liquid, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it and take any remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals.
If you are using ointment,
apply it as soon as you remember and apply further doses at your regular interval (e.g., every 3 hours) until you go to bed.
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 of either the ointment or oral medication to make up for a missed one.
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Overdose
Zovirax is generally safe. However, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
Symptoms of Zovirax overdose
may include:
- Agitation, kidney failure, lethargy, coma, seizures
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