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What Is It
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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Before Taking This Medicine
Other medicines¡XAlthough certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your do
or may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your health care professional if you are using any other topical prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) me
dicine that is to be applied to the same area of the skin.
Other medical problems¡XTell your doctor if your herpes simplex infection keeps coming back while you are using Zovirax
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How should this medicine be used?
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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Precautions while Using this Medicine
If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, check with your doctor.
The areas affected by herpes, chickenpox, or shingles should be kept as clean and dry as po
ssible. Also, wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid irritating the sores (blisters).
It is important to remember that Zovirax will not keep you from spreading herpes to others.
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Symptoms of 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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What side effects may occur?
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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