Zovirax Prevents The Spread Of Herpes Virus But Cannot Cure It Completely

Zovirax General Information

Generic Name: acyclovir

Brand Name: Zovirax

Zovirax is an antiviral drug which is used to control the spread of the herpes virus by enabling the body to fight against the infection.

Zovirax Uses

The drug cannot cure the virus, but it definitely lessens the symptoms of the infection. The drug has been found to be effective in the treatment of illnesses caused by herpes virus including chicken pox, genital herpes, cold sores and shingles.

How Take Zovirax

Tingling, burning and blisters are the first symptoms of a herpes virus and the medication should be started immediately after these symptoms appear. Each dose of Zovirax should be taken with a complete glass of water. During the treatment period, one should drink plenty of water to keep his kidneys safe. One can take Zovirax with or without food. The oral suspension in the liquid form should be measured accurately with a marked spoon to ensure the intake of prescribed amounts. The symptoms might show signs of improvement much before the course ends. The medication is to be taken for the entire period suggested by the doctor. But viral infections like common cold and flu cannot be cured by the application of this drug.

Zovirax Warnings

The wounds caused by the virus should be kept clean and dry to prevent irritation. Persons with kidney diseases might require a special dose adjustment. This medicine is not meant for persons who are allergic to valacyclovir. Herpes infections can spread from one person to the other. The infected areas should not be brought into contact with other people. After touching the infected area, one should avoid touching his eyes. Hands should be washed regularly to reduce the possibility of infecting other people.

Zovirax Missed Dose

One should not use extra medicine in case he has missed a dose by mistake. It is better to skip the missed dose if the next dose becomes due.

Zovirax Side Effects

 Some persons develop allergic reactions to some particular medicines and they might report hives, suffocation and swelling of hives, tongue, throat and lips. Some Zovirax users have complained about pain in the lower back, decreased frequency of urination, easy bleeding and an unusual weakness. Some less serious side effects include vomiting, nausea, loss of appetite, feeling light-headed, diarrhea, stomach pain and swelling in the hands and feet.

Zovirax Storage

Zovirax should be stored in room temperature and in a cool and dry place.

Zovirax Overdose

The drug should be taken for the term as mentioned in the prescription. Extra medication harms the body. A drug overdose should be brought to the attention of the medical practitioner. Symptoms observed in Zovirax overdose include convulsions, hallucinations and lesser frequency of urination or no urination at all.

Zovirax More Information

It needs to be noted that the drug cannot control the spread of genital herpes. A sexual intercourse is not safe unless a latex condom is used to prevent the spread of the infection to others. A mother should prevent development of lesions in the genital area during pregnancy as the infection passes into her child at the time of birth. One should inform his doctor whether he is using other drugs like Probenecid. In this case his doctor might not choose to recommend Zovirax to him. The 200 mg Zovirax dose appears as blue capsules while the Zovirax suspension appears off-white with the flavor of a banana. The drug is also available as 400 mg and 800 mg doses.