Zovirax

Other names used:

• Acivir®
• Cyclovir®
• Herpex®
• Zovir®

Active Ingredients:

• Acyclovir

How does Zovirax work and what pharmaceutical group does it belong to?

Zovirax is an antiviral preparation, synthetic analogue of purine nucleoside. The drug penetrates the virus infected cell and inhibits the synthesis of viral DNA thus disabling the ability of the virus to replicate.

Which conditions are treated with Acyclovir?

The preparation is prescribed in treatment of:

• Skin an mucous membrane infections caused by Herpes simplex virus 1 and 2
• Prophylaxis of recurring infections of Herpes simplex
• Treatment of Herpes zoster induced by Varicella zoster virus
• Cytomegalovirus infection prophylaxis

What should a patient know before using Zovirax?

The Acyclovir should not be used in cases of:

• Hypersensitivity to any components of the preparation
• Pregnancy
• Lactation period
• Dehydration in patients using the drug
• Liver failure

Which adverse effects may manifest when using the medication?

The side effects of Zovirax include:

• Gastrointestinal system: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain
• Haemopoietic system: anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia
• Urogenital system: severe renal failure
• CNS: headache, neurological disorders, dizziness, confusion, hallucinations, somnolence, seizures, coma
• Allergic reactions: rash, photosensibilisation, hives, itching, angioneurotic shock, anaphylaxis
• Other: fatigability, diffusive hair loss

It is not necessary that the side effects will manifest in an individual but the possibility still exist. For more information please consult your health care provider.

Which groups of drugs or specific preparations may interact with Acyclovir?

The drug is affected by the following:

• Gout treatment
• H2-histamine receptor blockers
• Tell your doctor about all the herbal preparations as well as prescription drugs that you are currently taking even if they are not on the list.

Important information for the patient:

Zovirax is supplied for individual use. Do not use it to treat other conditions not listed in the leaflet. Keep the product out of children reach. Do not reuse any disposable materials if supplied with the preparation.