Zovirax Cream: Effective Topical Treatment for Herpes Labialis
| Product dosage: 200mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 180 | $0.29 | $52.21 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $0.26
Best per pill | $104.42 $93.37 (11%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| Product dosage: 400mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 60 | $0.90 | $54.22 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 90 | $0.81 | $81.33 $73.29 (10%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $0.77 | $108.43 $92.37 (15%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $0.72 | $162.65 $129.52 (20%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $0.69 | $243.98 $185.74 (24%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $0.67
Best per pill | $325.30 $242.97 (25%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| Product dosage: 800mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 30 | $2.95 | $88.35 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 60 | $2.23 | $176.71 $133.54 (24%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 90 | $1.99 | $265.06 $178.72 (33%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $1.88 | $353.42 $225.91 (36%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $1.76 | $530.12 $316.27 (40%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $1.68 | $795.19 $452.81 (43%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $1.64
Best per pill | $1060.25 $589.36 (44%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Synonyms | |||
Similar products
Zovirax Cream (acyclovir 5%) is a topical antiviral medication specifically formulated for the management of initial and recurrent episodes of herpes labialis, commonly known as cold sores. As a nucleoside analogue DNA polymerase inhibitor, it targets the herpes simplex virus (HSV) at the site of infection, working to inhibit viral replication and reduce the duration of symptomatic episodes. This prescription-strength formulation is designed for direct application to the affected area, providing localized treatment with a well-established efficacy and safety profile supported by decades of clinical use and research.
Features
- Contains 5% acyclovir as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
- White, aqueous cream base formulation
- Available in 2g and 5g tubes with precise dosage recommendations
- Topical application directly to herpes labialis lesions
- Requires prescription in most jurisdictions
- Stable at room temperature with specific storage requirements
Benefits
- Reduces healing time of herpes labialis lesions by interfering with viral replication
- Decreases duration of pain and discomfort associated with cold sore outbreaks
- Limits viral shedding, potentially reducing transmission risk during active outbreaks
- Provides targeted therapy with minimal systemic absorption
- Convenient topical application without need for extensive dosing schedules
- Supported by extensive clinical evidence demonstrating efficacy in immunocompetent patients
Common use
Zovirax Cream is indicated for the treatment of herpes labialis (cold sores) in immunocompetent adults and children. The medication is most effective when applied at the earliest signs of an outbreak, typically during the prodromal phase when patients experience tingling, itching, or burning sensations before visible lesions appear. Clinical studies demonstrate that early intervention can significantly reduce the time to healing and decrease the severity of symptoms. The cream is applied directly to the affected area on the lips and perioral skin, with treatment typically continuing until lesions have crusted over or completely healed.
Dosage and direction
Apply Zovirax Cream to cover the affected area adequately five times per day at approximately 4-hour intervals. Treatment should be initiated as early as possible following onset of signs and symptoms. Wash hands before and after application to prevent autoinoculation or transmission to other individuals. Apply sufficient quantity to completely cover the lesion and surrounding area, typically using a finger cot or glove to prevent viral transfer. Treatment duration is typically 4 days, though may be extended to 10 days if healing is not complete. Do not apply to mucosal surfaces inside the mouth or eyes unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider.
Precautions
For external use only. Avoid application to eyes, inside the mouth, or vaginal areas unless specifically indicated. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed, as systemic absorption is minimal but not completely absent. Nursing mothers should apply cautiously and avoid application to areas where the infant might contact the medication. Do not use occlusive dressings over treated areas. Patients should be advised that Zovirax Cream may not prevent transmission of herpes to others and should continue to take appropriate precautions. Immunocompromised patients may require different treatment approaches and should consult their healthcare provider.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any component of the formulation. Patients with known allergic reactions to previous antiviral medications should avoid use. The cream formulation is contraindicated for application to mucous membranes unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider. Not indicated for the treatment of genital herpes, ophthalmic herpes, or disseminated herpes infections, which require systemic antiviral therapy.
Possible side effects
Most side effects are localized to the application site and generally mild. Common reactions include application site reactions (burning, stinging, itching) in approximately 5% of patients. Dryness or flaking of the skin may occur with prolonged use. Rarely, allergic contact dermatitis may develop, characterized by erythema, edema, and vesiculation. Systemic effects are uncommon due to minimal absorption, but headache and mild nausea have been reported in less than 1% of patients. Discontinuation should be considered if severe local reactions or signs of hypersensitivity develop.
Drug interaction
Formal drug interaction studies have not been conducted with topical acyclovir due to minimal systemic absorption. However, theoretical interactions with other nephrotoxic drugs are considered unlikely. No clinically significant interactions with other topical medications have been reported, though concurrent application of multiple topical products should be spaced appropriately to avoid formulation incompatibilities. Patients using immunosuppressive therapies should be monitored closely as their response to antiviral treatment may be altered.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, apply as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled application. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed application. Maintain the regular dosing schedule of approximately every 4 hours during waking hours. The efficacy of treatment depends on maintaining adequate drug levels at the site of infection, so consistency in application is important for optimal outcomes.
Overdose
Topical overdose is unlikely due to the formulation and application method. Excessive application may increase the risk of local adverse effects but is not expected to cause systemic toxicity due to poor percutaneous absorption. If accidental ingestion occurs, gastrointestinal effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea might occur. Symptomatic and supportive care is recommended. Dialysis may be considered in cases of significant accidental ingestion, though the volume of cream typically available makes serious systemic toxicity improbable.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature between 15-25°C (59-77°F). Do not freeze. Keep tube tightly closed when not in use. Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Discard any unused medication after the completion of treatment or if the expiration date has passed. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not transfer cream to other containers as this may compromise stability and sterility.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Zovirax Cream is a prescription medication that should be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual results may vary, and proper diagnosis should be obtained before beginning treatment. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for complete prescribing information and appropriate use guidelines. The manufacturer provides complete product information with each prescription.
Reviews
Clinical studies demonstrate that Zovirax Cream reduces healing time by approximately 0.5-1 day compared to placebo when applied early in the course of infection. Patient-reported outcomes indicate satisfaction with symptom relief, particularly reduction in pain and tingling sensations. Dermatologists consistently rate acyclovir cream as a first-line topical treatment for herpes labialis based on its established efficacy profile and favorable safety data. Long-term use data support its safety for recurrent applications, though patients should be monitored for potential local skin reactions with frequent use.