Zovirax
Acyclovir
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Zovirax
Zovirax is an antiviral drug. It acts by stopping viral replication. But, Zovirax can not eliminate the virus and it is not a cure for viral infections, and also it can not prevent transmission of viral infection to others.
Therapeutic Uses of Zovirax
Zovirax is used for treatment of chickenpox (varicella) or herpes zoster (shingles). It is also used in treatment or suppressing genital herpes infections. It may also be used for other medical conditions as determined by your doctor, especially in other viral infections.
Direction of use of Zovirax
Zovirax should be used as per direction of your doctor. Read the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions. Zovirax is taken by mouth with food or on empty stomach. You should drink extra fluid while you are taking Zovirax. The therapy with Zovirax should be started at the earliest sign or symptom of chickenpox, shingles or genital herpes (pain, burning, blisters).If treating an acute outbreak, continue using Zovirax for the full course of treatment even if you feel better in a few days. For suppressive therapy, Zovirax should be taken at the same times each day for best results. Consult with your doctor for instructions about the use of Zovirax, if you have any question about it.
If You Miss a Dose of Zovirax
If you miss a dose of Zovirax, please take it as soon as you can remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose of Zovirax and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at a time for missing a dose of it.
How to Store Zovirax
Zovirax should be stored below 25 degrees C, but do not refrigerate. Store it away from heat, moisture, and light in a tightly closed light resistant container. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Zometa out of the reach of children.
More Information About Zovirax
If you have any questions about Zovirax, please askyour doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider. Zovirax should be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed and not shared with other people. It should not be used in other medical conditions without consulting your doctor. If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, you should consult your doctor.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Zovirax
Do not use Zovirax Capsules if you are suffering from any of the medical conditions listed below and consult your doctor immediately:
- If you are allergic to any of the ingredients used in Zovirax Capsules or to other antiviral drugs like valacyclovir.
Some medical conditions may interact with Zovirax Capsules. You should inform your doctor or pharmacist or other health care provider if you have any of the medical conditions, especially the conditions listed below:
- If you have allergy to any medicine, food, or any other substance.
- If you are taking any prescription medicine or nonprescription medicine (over the counter medication), herbal preparation, or dietary supplement.
- If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or if you are breast feeding.
- If you have any kidney problem or a weakened immune system.
Some medicines may interact with Zovirax. You should inform your doctor or other health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
- Medicines that may harm the kidney like aminoglycoside antibiotics (examples of aminoglycoside antibiotics are gentamicin, streptomycin, vancomycin etc.), amphotericin B, cyclosporine, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs (examples of NSAIDs are ibuprofen, diclofenac etc.), because the risk of kidney damage may be increased. Ask your doctor if you are unsure if any of your medicines might harm the kidney.
Possible Adverse Effects of Zovirax
- Diarrhea, general body discomfort, headache; nausea, vomiting etc. are the common and mild side effects of Zovirax. If any of the common and mild side effects of Zovirax become bothersome and/or persistent you should consult your doctor.
- Get immediate medical attention if any of the severe side effects of Zovirax occur. The serious side effects of Zovirax are severe allergic reaction (the symptoms of severe allergic reaction are skin rash, hives, itching, difficulty in breathing, tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); confusion, hallucinations, mental or mood changes, aggressive behavior, decreased consciousness; blood in the urine, decreased urine production, lower back pain, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; seizures; unusual bruising or bleeding.
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