Zovirax

Zovirax – The Benefits and Risks It Offers

Zovirax, Also known as Acyclovir is famous as the first ever anti-viral drug in the world. Synthesized and presented to the market for the first time by Howards Scherffer of Welcome Research Laboratories in 1974. A team lead by Gertrude B Elion research the drug in depth to find out what can it do best.

The Welcome Research Laboratories found that Zovirax is a wonder drug against viruses that cause herpes, and this was announced to the world in 1977 after more than 75 research studies were carried out on almost all the facets of the drug.

Acyclovir as a commercially produced drug obtained FDA approval in 1982 and entered the market in the form of ointment. It was available as a tablet – for oral use – only in 1985. According to the FDA approval.

Zovirax can be used for the following condition's treatment:

(1) Genital herpes
(2) Cichenpox or varicella
(3) Shingles or he Herpes zoster infections
(4) Recurrent herpes of the genitals
(5) Cold sores (Recurrent herpes labialis)
(6) Herpes simplex
(7) Severe cases of genital herpes
(8) Neonatal herpes

It is also used successfully against the following ailments:

(1) Greatly reduces the necessity of performing C-section in women who have had recurrent herpes;
(2) Greatly reduces the necessity of performing C-section in women who have had contacted the herpes during the pregnancy
(3) Viral infections post transplantation of organs
(4) Varicella neumonia

Zovirax is able to fight not one or two but four major groups of herpes viruses:

- Cytomegalo Virus
- Epstein-Barr Virus
- Herpes simplex virus
- Herpes simplex virus

The Advantages Of Using Zovirax -

There are many advantages that this drug offers, which reason it is often the most recommended medication for treatment related to the herpes virus.

(1) Hugely Effective Against Recurrent Genital Herpes – as every person who has suffered from genital herpes would acknowledge, there is nothing more painful than to think the problem is gone, only to find that it has reoccurred. Zovirax is highly effective in this type of viral attack. It is known to be able to reduce the repeat occurrence by as much as 90%.

(2) It Is Safe For Treatment Of Pregnant Women – the biggest challenge for pregnant women who are infected by this virus during or before pregnancy is how to control it without putting the bay at risk. Zovirax is totally safe during pregnancy and hence, an excellent choice for treatment of recurrent genital herpes.

How Long Does It Take for Acyclovir to Work?

Acyclovir (Zovirax) oral tablet is an antiviral drug that belong to the class of drugs called antivirals. Zovirax generic name is Acyclovir. Zovirax Acyclovir comes in the form of a capsule, buccal tablet, suspension, Acyclovir cream, and ointment. Additionally, Acyclovir is also available as an intravenous drug which is administered by a healthcare professional only.

What is Zovirax?

Zovirax is an antiviral medication used to treat viral infections including herpes zoster infection (shingles), genital herpes, and varicella zoster (chickenpox). Zovirax generic may be used as a combination therapy which means you have to take this drug in combination with other drugs.

Zovirax can be taken orally by mouth or applied topically as prescribed by your healthcare professional. This medication is sold under different brand names. Zovirax (Acyclovir) medication can be prescribed as a cream, Acyclovir ointment, capsule, or buccal tablet.

Acyclovir sodium injection is used by medical professionals to treat initial or repeat herpes outbreaks and herpes zoster infections in patients with weak immune systems.

What is Zovirax Used For?

Zovirax is used to treat viral infections such as herpes infections and varicella (chickenpox). Acyclovir does not completely cure herpes infections however it can help you manage symptoms. Once you are exposed to the herpes virus it remains in your body lifelong and may cause symptoms again.

Acyclovir is prescribed to treat infections caused by certain kinds of viruses. It treats shingles caused by herpes zoster, chickenpox caused by varicella zoster, and cold sores around the mouth caused by herpes simplex virus.

Acyclovir is also used to treat genital herpes outbreaks. In people with frequent outbreaks of herpes, Acyclovir is prescribed to reduce the count of future episodes. Acyclovir does not cure these infections however it significantly decreases the severity and length of outbreaks.

It allows the sores to heal faster, prevents new sore formation, and reduces pain and itching. This medication also reduces the pain after the sores heal. In patients with weak immune systems, Acyclovir can reduce the risk of infection spreading to other body parts.

Zovirax for Genital Herpes

Zovirax (Acyclovir) is a synthetic nucleoside analog that inhibits replication of herpes viruses. Acyclovir agent is used to manage symptoms caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV). This is an FDA-approved drug to treat genital herpes and HSV encephalitis.

This medication is used to prevent recurrent genital herpes infections. Even though  Acyclovir will not cure herpes, it significantly helps relieve pain and discomfort and allows the sores to heal faster. In case of recurring genital herpes outbreak you may be prescribed to take oral Acyclovir for 10 months or more.

Can an Infected person spread Genital Herpes?

Herpes viruses are most likely to be spread during an active outbreak. Genital herpes can be spread when the infected person has open sores, lesions, and blisters on their body.

Herpes infection easily transmits by skin-to-skin contact with the person suffering from this infection. You can acquire genital herpes from the infected person by having oral sex, vaginal or anal sex with the infected person. It's better to avoid having sex during an active outbreak.

Taking antiviral medicine such as Zovirax (Acyclovir) can help you diminish the risk of transmitting genital herpes to your sexual partners. Also, inform your sexual partner that you are suffering from genital herpes infection.

Zovirax for Cold sores (Herpes Virus)

Zovirax cold sore cream is highly recommended to treat cold sores on the face and lips. The medication is used to treat herpes labialis (cold sores/fever blisters). Cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus. Zovirax cold sore cream can significantly ease symptoms and boost the sore healing process.

Zovirax cold sore cream does not eliminate herpes simplex virus from your body and it does not prevent cold sores from coming back. However, it can help you manage symptoms and encourage healing.

It is recommended to start using Zovirax cold sore cream preferably at the first sign of symptoms or as soon as possible to get the maximum results.

Zovirax Where to Buy?

Is It Possible To Get Zovirax Over The Counter?

No, Zovirax (Acyclovir) is a prescription-only medication so one can not buy it over the counter without a prescription. The prescription drugs are not available over the counter.

How to buy Zovirax online cheap at the best prices

You can buy Zovirax 400mg online cheap at great prices as many websites are offering great discounts. You can also check the Zovirax website to buy Zovirax 400mg online and to buy Zovirax 800mg online. Various other pharmacy websites deliver genuine drugs and offer great discounts that make purchasing medication a hassle-free process and easy on your pocket.

If you are looking to buy Zovirax 800mg online cheap you need to follow a few steps. First, you need to book an appointment for an Acyclovir prescription request at the website from where you decided to buy this medicine. You can also book same-day appointments from anywhere.

Once your appointment is confirmed, you can talk to the medical provider concerning your Acyclovir (Zovirax) prescription. You can visit the medical provider online through your smartphone or computer. Then you can pick up your prescription and the online pharmacy will send the prescription to any local pharmacy.

What Is The Cost Of Zovirax (Acyclovir)?

The cost of Zovirax may vary depending on the country and pharmacy you visit. However, on average the Zovirax cream price is around $220 for a 5-gram tube. Acyclovir cost without insurance is around $46 for 60 tablets. Acyclovir 400 mg price may be lower if covered by insurance or a copay program.

If you are a cash-paying customer and you do not have insurance you can still save on average Zovirax 400 mg price online. Also, you can compare Zovirax 400 tablet price on various websites and choose accordingly.

You can save on the Acyclovir 400 mg tablet price as many websites such as Amazon, Plushcare, Rxconnected, and many others offer various printable coupons, copay cards, rebates, free samples, or trial offers. Such offers can be printable from the websites and some may require completing a questionnaire, registration, or getting a sample from a healthcare professional.

How To Refill An Acyclovir Prescription?

As Acyclovir is a prescription drug, you must be wondering about its refill. Follow the refilling instructions on your Acyclovir prescription recommended by your healthcare professional. You can also refill your Acyclovir prescription conveniently online.

Online doctors available with online pharmacies can refill your Acyclovir prescription online once you qualify. Simply book an appointment at your chosen online pharmacy and visit the doctor online through your phone, laptop, or computer. Once you qualify they send a refill electronically to your nearest pharmacy.

How does Zovirax (Acyclovir) Work?

Acyclovir belongs to the antiviral class of drugs. Zovirax (Acyclovir) works by dropping the ability of the herpes virus to replicate in your body. It does not cure herpes infections however it effectively traets the symptoms of infection.

Acyclovir or Zovirax halts the action of the DNA polymerase enzyme that is responsible for replicating the virus copies. Zovirax decreases the ability of the virus to replicate and spread. Zovirax reduces the severity of infection as well as symptoms.

Even after taking Acyclovir, the herpes virus remains in your body for life. After your current infection clears up, still your symptoms may come back after certain months or years. Even if you are taking Acyclovir, you can still transmit the virus to your sexual partner.

How Long Does It Take For Acyclovir To Work Against Herpes Virus?

It may take around two hours to reach peak plasma concentrations after oral administration of Acyclovir. Acyclovir may take around three days to reduce symptoms, however, it should be taken until you complete the prescribed course. Acyclovir (Zovirax) works best when you take it within 48 hours of symptom onset.

Zovirax Dosage For Genital Herpes, Shingles, Or Chickenpox (herpes zoster)

Child Dosage (0-2 years)

The safety and effectiveness of Acyclovir (Zovirax) are not confirmed in children younger than 2 years of age.

Child Dosage (2-17 years) for Chicken pox

Chickenpox typical dosage for children with 40 kg or less body weight are prescribed 20 mg/kg of body weight four times a day for five days.

Children weighing above 40 kg weight are prescribed Acyclovir 800 mg four times a day for five days.

Adult Dosage (18-64 years)

Shingles typical dosage is Acyclovir 800 mg five times a day for seven to ten days. Make sure to maintain four hours gap between the doses.

The typical initial dosage for genital herpes (initial dosage) is 200 mg every four hours, five times a day for ten days.

For prevention of recurrent herpes the typical Acyclovir dosage is 400 mg twice a day for up to 12 months. Your doctor may also prescribe you to take 200 mg three or five times daily to avoid a flare-up of infection.

The dosage for reinfection or flare-up is 200 mg every four hours five times a day for five days. Make sure to start this medication as soon as you notice the first signs of a flare-up.

The typical chickenpox adult dosage is 800 mg four times a day for five days. It is recommended to start this drug as the first symptom of chickenpox appears. The drug may not work effectively if you start it after 24 hours of the first sign of chickenpox.

Senior Dosage (above 65 years)

The kidney function of older adults may not be as well as that of adults. It can make your body process the medications very slowly. As a result, more of the drug remains in your body for a  longer period increasing the risk of side effects.

The doctor may start with a lowered dose or a different drug schedule in senior adults. It can help keep the levels of this medication from building up too much in the body.

How To Use Acyclovir

Take Acyclovir oral tablet with or without food as suggested by your doctor two to five times a day. Drink more fluids while taking this drug. Acyclovir (Zovirax) works best when taken at the first sign of an outbreak and as recommended by your doctor.

If your doctor has prescribed you the liquid form of this medication, shake the bottle well every time before using it. Measure the dose of oral suspension carefully with the measuring device given with the medicine. Do not use your normal kitchen spoon to ensure you get the correct dose.

Acyclovir works great when the amount of medication is maintained at a constant level in your body. That is why it is recommended to take this medication at even-spaced intervals.

Take this medication exactly as suggested by your doctor and complete the prescribed course even if the symptoms get better after taking a few doses. Do not skip or alter the doses or stop taking this drug without consulting your doctor.

Acyclovir side effects

Common side effects of Acyclovir are nausea, headache, vomiting, or diarrhea. If any of these side effects get worse or last longer seek medical help. This drug may rarely cause a severe allergic reaction such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

Serious Zovirax side effects include drowsiness, allergic skin reaction, dizziness, mood changes, unusual tiredness, severe stomach pain, dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, unsteady movement, and easy bruising. Get immediate medical help if you experience very serious side effects such as trouble speaking, seizures, sudden vision changes, kidney or flank pain or loss of consciousness.

Missed Dose

If you missed a dose of oral capsule or tablet, take it immeditaely as you remember about the missed dose. If you realize about the missed dose when it is almost the time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses together to make up for the missed dose.

In case of Overdose

Symptoms of drug overdose include seizures, loss of consciousness, agitation extreme tiredness. If symptoms feel life threatening such as trouble breathing or passing out, call your local poison control center or provincial poison control center immediately.

Warnings

It is highly essential to inform your doctor about your medical history to avoid any kind of complications. Tell your healthcare provider if you have or ever had kidney disease, kidney problems or weak immune system due to a disease or certain medicine. Make sure your healthcare professional knows about any medications or herbal supplements you are taking.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding your child. Acyclovir is considered as category B pregnancy drug that means the studies of this drug in pregnant animals have not demonstrated any risk to the fetus and there are no adequate studies performed in pregnant women to assess the safety of the fetus. This drug passes into breast milk, however it is unlikely to affect the nursing baby.

If you are taking Acyclovir (Zovirax) to treat genital herpes, it is recommended to avoid sexual contact until the infection clear up completely. Even if you are taking Zovirax you should avoid intimate and sexual contact because you can still spread the infection to your partner.

Drug Interactions

Drug interactions influence the the way your medications perform and may increase the risk of side effects. Do not take any other medication without consulting your healthcare provider or alter the prescribed Acyclovir dosage.

Some medications may interact with Acyclovir oral tablet such as non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs. The drugs which can interact with Acyclovir and may cause serious symptoms include Naproxen, Ibuprofen, Bupropion, Dichlorphenamide, Foscarnet, Fexinidazole, Nitisinone, Leflunomide.

Acyclovir is quite similar to Valacyclovir so it is recommended not to use drugs containing Vlacyclovir when you are taking Acyclovir. The drugs interact differently in each patient so make sure you stick to your doctor's instructions to avoid possible drug interactions while using Zovirax.

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