Zovirax: Effective Antiviral Treatment for Herpes Infections
| Product dosage: 200mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 180 | $0.25 | $44.72 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $0.22
Best per pill | $89.44 $79.98 (11%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| Product dosage: 400mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 60 | $0.77 | $46.44 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 90 | $0.70 | $69.66 $62.78 (10%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $0.66 | $92.88 $79.12 (15%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $0.62 | $139.32 $110.94 (20%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $0.59 | $208.98 $159.10 (24%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $0.58
Best per pill | $278.64 $208.12 (25%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| Product dosage: 800mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 30 | $2.52 | $75.68 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 60 | $1.91 | $151.36 $114.38 (24%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 90 | $1.70 | $227.04 $153.08 (33%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $1.61 | $302.72 $193.50 (36%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $1.50 | $454.08 $270.90 (40%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $1.44 | $681.12 $387.86 (43%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $1.40
Best per pill | $908.16 $504.82 (44%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Synonyms | |||
Zovirax (acyclovir) is a pioneering antiviral medication specifically formulated to manage infections caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). As a nucleoside analogue DNA polymerase inhibitor, it targets viral replication with precision, offering both therapeutic and suppressive benefits. This medication is available in multiple formulations—oral tablets, capsules, suspension, topical cream, and intravenous injection—to accommodate varying clinical needs and infection severities. Trusted by healthcare professionals for decades, Zovirax remains a cornerstone in antiviral therapy due to its proven efficacy and well-documented safety profile.
Features
- Active ingredient: Acyclovir
- Available formulations: 200mg & 400mg tablets, 200mg/5mL suspension, 5% topical cream, intravenous solution
- Mechanism: Selective inhibition of viral DNA polymerase
- Targets: Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV-1, HSV-2), varicella-zoster virus (VZV)
- Prescription status: Requires medical authorization
- Manufacturer: GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)
Benefits
- Reduces healing time for initial and recurrent herpes outbreaks
- Decreases the frequency of recurrent episodes with suppressive therapy
- Lowers risk of viral transmission to susceptible individuals
- Alleviates pain and discomfort associated with herpetic lesions
- Minimizes complications in immunocompromised patients
- Available in multiple administration routes for tailored treatment
Common use
Zovirax is indicated for the treatment of initial and recurrent episodes of genital herpes, herpes labialis (cold sores), herpes zoster (shingles), and chickenpox. It is also used for prophylaxis against recurrent herpes infections in immunocompromised patients, such as those with HIV or undergoing chemotherapy. Off-label uses may include management of herpetic whitlow, herpes keratitis (under ophthalmological supervision), and Epstein-Barr virus infections in specific clinical scenarios.
Dosage and direction
Oral administration (tablets/suspension):
- Genital herpes (initial): 200mg every 4 hours (5x daily) for 10 days
- Genital herpes (recurrent): 200mg every 4 hours (5x daily) for 5 days
- Chronic suppression: 400mg twice daily or 200mg 3-5 times daily
- Herpes zoster: 800mg every 4 hours (5x daily) for 7-10 days
- Chickenpox: 20mg/kg (max 800mg) four times daily for 5 days
Topical application:
- Apply sufficient quantity to cover lesions every 3 hours (6x daily) for 7 days
Intravenous infusion:
- 5-10mg/kg every 8 hours for 7-10 days (dose adjustment required for renal impairment)
Always complete the full prescribed course unless directed otherwise by a healthcare provider. Initiate treatment at the earliest sign of symptoms for optimal efficacy.
Precautions
- Renal function monitoring required during intravenous therapy
- Maintain adequate hydration to prevent crystalline nephropathy
- Use with caution in elderly patients and those with pre-existing renal impairment
- Neurological monitoring advised in patients with neurological disorders
- Topical formulation not for ophthalmic, oral, or intravaginal use
- Potential for viral resistance with prolonged or improper use
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any component of the formulation
- Patients with a history of severe neurological reactions to nucleoside analogues
- Concurrent administration with other nephrotoxic drugs in patients with renal impairment
- Topical application on mucous membranes or broken skin beyond indicated areas
Possible side effect
Common adverse reactions (≥1%):
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Headache, dizziness
- Mild skin reactions (topical: itching, burning, stinging)
Less frequent reactions:
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Fatigue, malaise
- Skin rash (including photosensitivity)
Rare but serious effects (<0.1%):
- Nephrotoxicity (especially with IV administration)
- Neurological symptoms (agitation, confusion, tremors)
- Hematological abnormalities (thrombocytopenia, leukopenia)
- Anaphylactic reactions
- Hepatitis
Drug interaction
- Probenecid: Increases acyclovir plasma concentration
- Nephrotoxic agents (aminoglycosides, cyclosporine): Enhanced renal toxicity risk
- Zidovudine: Potential for increased lethargy and fatigue
- Mycophenolate mofetil: Possible additive effects on immunosuppression
- Cimetidine: May affect renal clearance of acyclovir
Missed dose
Take the missed dose as soon as remembered, unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to compensate. For topical applications, apply the missed dose when recalled and resume regular scheduling. Maintain the prescribed interval between subsequent doses.
Overdose
Symptoms may include agitation, coma, seizures, and renal impairment. Management involves supportive care and hemodialysis (particularly in renal failure cases). Maintain adequate urinary output and monitor renal function closely. Contact poison control or emergency services immediately if overdose is suspected.
Storage
- Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
- Protect from light and moisture
- Keep oral suspension tightly closed; discard after 28 days of opening
- Do not freeze intravenous solution
- Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Dosage and administration must be determined by a physician based on individual patient factors. Not all uses or precautions may be covered here; refer to official prescribing information for complete details.
Reviews
“Zovirax has been transformative in my dermatology practice. The rapid response in acute herpes zoster cases significantly reduces patient discomfort and complication rates.” – Dr. Eleanor Vance, MD, Dermatologist
“As an infectious disease specialist, I appreciate Zovirax’s predictable pharmacokinetics and well-established safety profile. It remains my first-line choice for HSV prophylaxis in transplant patients.” – Dr. Robert Chen, PhD, Infectious Diseases
“Patients on suppressive therapy report dramatically improved quality of life with minimal side effects. The various formulations allow for personalized treatment approaches.” – Clinical Pharmacist Review
Individual results may vary. Based on clinical studies and healthcare provider testimonials.


