Zovirax (generic name: acyclovir; brand names include: AcloVIR / Cyclovir / Herpex / Acivir / Zovir) is an antiviral agent.

Zovirax is effective in the treatment of initial and recurrent genital herpes, and is also indicated for the prevention of recurrent herpes simplex infections.

Indications include:

genital herpes simplex virus (HSV)
herpes labialis (cold sores)
herpes zoster (shingles)
HSV encephalitis
neonatal HSV
mucocutaneous HSV
varicella-zoster (chickenpox)

Zovirax is effective in the reduction of the duration and severity of acute symptoms and rash, in the reduction of all zoster-associated pain and in the reduction of the incidence and duration of post-herpetic neuralgia.

Zovirax reduces the replication of the virus to help speed up the healing process.

Recommendations

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Take Zovirax exactly as directed.

Zovirax tablets may be swallowed whole with a glass of water, or dispersed in a quarter of a glass of water (about 50 mL) and then swallowed.

Continue taking this medicine for the full course of treatment even if you feel better in a few days. It is important that you complete your course of tablets to effectively treat an outbreak of herpes, or to reduce further outbreaks if you are taking Zovirax long term. Drink plenty of fluids.

Do not miss any doses. If you have just missed your scheduled dose, take it as soon as you remember and continue as before. If you have forgotten to take one dose of Zovirax and it is almost time to take your next scheduled dose, then skip the dose you have missed, and continue taking your Zovirax as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Do not take a double dose to make up for the dose that you have missed.

Store this medicine at room temperature, away from light and moisture.

Precautions

Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor if:

you are allergic any medicines;
you are pregnant, or become pregnant while using Zovirax, or are breast-feeding.

Ingredients

Active ingredient: aciclovir.