Zovirax Ointment
(Acyclovir)

Zovirax Ointment Indication 

Zovirax is an antiviral drug that slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection.  Zovirax is not a cure for herpes, but it may lessen the symptoms of the infection.   

Storage 

• Store Zovirax at room temperature away from moisture and heat.   
• Keep all medication away from children and pets.   

Precautions 

• Herpes infections are contagious.   
• You can infect others with herpes even while you are being treated with antiviral medication.  
• Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people.   
• Avoid touching the infected area and then touching your eyes.   

• Wash your hands frequently to prevent passing the infection on to others.  
• Zovirax will not prevent the spread of genital herpes.   
• Make sure to avoid sexual intercourse or use a latex condom to prevent passing the virus on to others.  
• Before taking Zovirax, tell your doctor if you are taking probenecid (Benmid).   
• If you are using this medication, you may not be able to use Zovirax or may need a dosage adjustment.   

• There are other drugs that may interact with Zovirax.   
• Tell your doctor about any prescription and non-prescription drugs that you use.   
• Do not start a new medication without informing your doctor.   

Warnings 

• This medicine is not expected to harm an unborn baby.  

• Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant during treatment.  
• Herpes virus can be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.  
• If you have genital herpes, it is important to prevent herpes lesions during pregnancy so that you do not have an outbreak when your child is born. 

Patient Family Information  

• Take Zovirax exactly as it was prescribed to you.   

• Do not take this medication in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed to you.  
• Take Zovirax as soon as a herpes outbreak appears with a full glass of water.   
• Drink plenty of water while taking Zovirax to help your kidneys function properly.   
• Zovirax can be taken with or without food.   
• For Zovirax liquid, shake the suspension well before you measure a dose.  

• Be sure you measure the correct dose.   
• With Zovirax topical, follow the application directions on the label carefully.   
• Lesions should be kept as clean and dry as possible.   
• Wearing loose clothing may help prevent the irritation of herpes virus lesions.  

Contraindication 

• Do not take Zovirax if you are allergic to Zovirax or valacyclovir.   
• Before taking Zovirax, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs or if you have kidney disease.    
• This may require you to have a dose adjustment or tests during treatment.   
• Zovirax passes into breast milk and may harm a breast-feeding baby.   
• Do not take this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast feeding a baby.  

Severe Side Effects of Zovirax Ointment 

Get emergency medical help immediately if you have any of these signs of allergic reaction to Zovirax:  

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat  

• Pain in your lower back 
• Urinating less than usual 
• Not urinating at all 
• Easy bruising or bleeding 
• Unusual weakness 

Common Side effects of Zovirax Ointment 

Less serious side effects include:  

• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 

• Loss of appetite 
• Stomach pain 
• Headache 
• Feeling lightheaded 
• Swelling in the hands or feet 

Other Drugs 

Crixivan (Indinavir) | Famvir | Videx EC 

 

References 

2022. Zovirax Ointment – Uses, Side Effects, and More. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5230-69/zovirax-topical/acyclovir-ointment-topical/details