Acyclovir Cream – Topical, Zovirax

Medication Uses: This cream treats "cold sores/fever blisters" (herpes labialis). It speeds up healing and decreases symptoms such as tingling, pain, burning, and itching. Acyclovir is an antiviral medication that stops the growth of the virus. It does not cure herpes or prevent passing the infection. It also does not prevent future occurrences.

Other Uses: This medication may also treat genital herpes. However, other orally taken medications may be more effective for genital herpes. Discuss your treatment options with your doctor. Acyclovir cream does not cure herpes or prevent the infection from spreading to sexual partners.

How to Use: Read the Patient Information Leaflet from your pharmacist. Use the medication at the first sign of infection (tingling, burning, redness). Wash your hands with soap and water before and after applying the medication. Clean and dry the affected areas before application. Rub the cream gently into the affected area, usually five times a day for four days for cold sores, or as directed by your doctor. Apply enough cream to cover all affected areas. Do not apply the cream in the eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina. If the cream does come into contact with these areas, flush with water. Use the medication regularly and at consistent intervals to get the most benefit. Avoid bathing, showering, or swimming immediately after application to prevent washing off the cream. If applying to genital herpes sores, use a finger cot or rubber gloves to avoid spreading the infection. Do not apply other skin products unless instructed to do so by your doctor. Do not cover the area with plastic or waterproof bandages unless instructed to do so by your doctor.

Side Effects: Dry/cracked lips, burning, stinging, or flaky skin may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist. Serious allergic reactions to this medication are rare but seek immediate medical attention if any symptoms occur. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Precautions: Before using acyclovir, inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies you have. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Discuss your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. Acyclovir may pass into breast milk but is unlikely to harm nursing infants. Avoid breastfeeding if you have herpes sores on or near your breast.

Drug Interactions: Your doctor or pharmacist may be aware of possible drug interactions and monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you are taking. Keep a list of all your medications and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.

Overdose: Contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately if you suspect an overdose or swallowing. Store this medication as instructed and properly discard it when expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details on safe disposal.

Notes: Do not share this medication with others as it may spread the infection. Cold sore outbreaks can be caused by various factors such as stress, hormonal changes, injury/surgery on the mouth, tiredness, sunlight, cold weather, or fever/cold/flu. If you have genital herpes sores, wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid irritation.

Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual schedule. Do not double the dose.

Storage: Store the US product at room temperature below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Briefly store between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C). Store the Canadian product between 59-77 degrees F (15-25 degrees C). Firmly screw the cap back on after each use. Keep away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines out of reach of children and pets. Properly discard when expired or no longer needed.

Report Problems

If you experience negative side effects from prescription drugs, report them to the FDA or visit the FDA MedWatch website.

This information should supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. It is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet, or starting or discontinuing any course of treatment.