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Symptoms of overdose may include:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include sluggishness, change in amount of urine, loss of consciousness, or se
izures.
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Side Effects
Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Zovirax.
More common side effects may include:
- Diarrhea, general feeling of bodily discomfort, nausea, vomiting
Other reported side effects include:
- Aggressive behavior, agitation, allergic reactions, blood in the urine, coma, confusion, decreased consciousness, delirium, dizziness, fever, hair
loss, hallucinations, headache, hives, itching, kidney failure, lack of coordination, pain, psychosis, rash, seizures, skin peeling, sleepiness, swelling, swollen face and throat, swollen lymph nodes
, tingling, upset stomach, vision problems, yellowish skin and eyes
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Drug Interactions
Other nephrotoxic agents and probenecid. Reports of 30% decrease clearance of Zovirax when used with probenecid; reduced Zovirax dose
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Description
Zovirax (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 infect
ions.
Topical Zovirax is used to treat the symptoms of herpes simplex virus infections of the skin, mucous membranes, and genitals (sex organs). Although topical Zovirax will not cure herpes
simplex, it may help relieve the pain and discomfort and may help the sores (if any) heal faster. Topical Zovirax may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Zovirax
is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms:
Topical
Cream (Canada)
Ointment (U.S. and Canada)
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Cautions
This medication should be used cautiously during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.
Avoid s
exual activity while signs and symptoms of genital herpes are present to prevent infecting your partner. Inform your doctor if this medication does not appear to decrease the frequency or severity of
recurrent infections.
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How should you take this medication?
Your medication should not be shared with others, and the prescribed dose should not be exceeded. You can take Zovirax with or without food.
Zovirax ointment should not be used in or near th
e eyes. To reduce the risk of spreading the infection, use a rubber glove to apply the ointment.
Zovirax cream should not be used in or near the eyes, or inside the nose or mouth. The medica
tion can, however, be applied on the outside of the lips. Apply the cream with your fingers to clean, dry skin. Be sure to wash your hands before and after applying Zovirax cream, and avoid bathing or
swimming afterward to prevent it from washing off. Do not cover the cold sore with a bandage or make-up unless your doctor approves.
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