Zovirax

What is it?

Composition

Zovirax contains the active substance acyclovir, which is the main component that provides the antiviral effect of the drug. Depending on the release form, the composition of Zovirax may include other excipients necessary to ensure stability, absorption and ease of use of the drug.

• Acyclovir is an active substance with antiviral activity.
• Cetostearyl alcohol is a stabilizer used in the cream.
• Propylene glycol is a moisturizer that improves the penetration of the cream into the skin.
• Purified water is the basis for the cream and injection solution.
• Sodium hydroxide is a component that regulates the pH of the solution.

Each release form of Zovirax has its own unique composition, adapted to a specific method of application, whether it is local application to the skin or oral administration.

How to use?

The correct use of Zovirax depends on the form of the drug and the type of viral infection being treated. The basic instructions for use can be summarized as follows:

1. **Cream for external use:** Apply a thin layer of cream to the affected area of skin 5 times a day at approximately 4-hour intervals. The course of treatment is usually 5 days, but can be extended on the advice of a doctor if symptoms persist.
2. **Tablets:** Take by mouth with plenty of water. The usual dose for the treatment of herpes is 200 mg 5 times a day. Tablets should be taken at regular intervals to maintain a constant level of acyclovir in the body. The course of treatment is usually 5-10 days.
3. **Eye ointment:** Place a small amount of ointment (about 1 cm) behind the lower eyelid 5 times a day at approximately 4-hour intervals. Treatment continues until complete healing plus another 3 days after the symptoms disappear.

It is important to strictly follow the instructions for use in order to achieve the maximum therapeutic effect and avoid the development of viral resistance to the drug.

How does it work?

Zovirax works thanks to the active substance acyclovir, which is an antiviral agent specifically aimed against herpes viruses. After penetrating the infected cell, acyclovir turns into an active form, which interferes with the process of virus reproduction, blocking its ability to copy its DNA. This leads to a slowdown in the growth and spread of the virus, which helps the body cope with the infection.

At the same time, Zovirax does not destroy the virus completely, since the herpes virus remains in the body in an inactive form even after the end of treatment. However, the drug significantly reduces the activity of the virus during exacerbations, reducing the severity of symptoms, shortening the duration of the disease and preventing further spread of the infection.

Indications

Zovirax is used to treat a variety of diseases caused by herpes viruses. The drug is effective in both primary infections and relapses, allowing you to control symptoms and prevent complications. Common indications include:

• Cold sores (herpes labialis) - used to reduce symptoms and promote healing of sores.
• Genital herpes - helps reduce the intensity and duration of symptoms, and reduce the frequency of relapses.
• Shingles (herpes zoster) - relieves pain and promotes rapid healing of the rash.
• Herpetic keratitis - used in the form of an eye ointment to treat inflammation of the cornea caused by the herpes virus.
• Prevention of herpes infections in people with weakened immune systems - prevents herpes from occurring in patients at high risk due to immunodeficiency.

Zovirax may also be used in some cases to prevent herpes infections in patients with weakened immune systems, helping to prevent the development of severe forms of the disease.

Contraindications

Zovirax, despite its effectiveness, is not suitable for all patients. There are certain contraindications that should be taken into account before starting treatment to avoid possible complications. The main contraindications include:

• Hypersensitivity to acyclovir or any of the auxiliary components of the drug - may cause an allergic reaction.
• Children under 3 years of age (for tablets) - younger children are recommended to use other forms of the drug or alternative medications.
• Breastfeeding period - although acyclovir penetrates into breast milk in small quantities, its use should be agreed with a doctor.
• Severe kidney disease - in case of renal failure, a dose adjustment and special caution are required, since acyclovir is excreted through the kidneys.

If you have any chronic diseases or are pregnant, before using Zovirax, you must consult a doctor to assess the benefit-risk ratio of the drug.

Side effects

Zovirax is generally well tolerated by most patients, but like any other medication, it can cause side effects. These are usually mild and temporary, but in some cases, they require stopping the drug and consulting a doctor. The main possible side effects include:

• Skin reactions - redness, itching, or dry skin where the cream is applied.
• Headaches and dizziness - may occur when taking tablets, especially in patients with sensitivity to the drug.
• Gastrointestinal disorders - nausea, vomiting, diarrhea may occur when taking tablets or the injection form of the drug.
• Renal failure - rarely, but deterioration of kidney function is possible, especially in patients with existing kidney disease.
• Allergic reactions - rash, hives, in rare cases, angioedema is possible.

If you experience any adverse reactions, it is important to stop using Zovirax and seek medical attention. Your doctor may adjust your dosage or suggest alternative treatment options.