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Zovirax Medication - Uses & Side Effects

Generic Name: Acyclovir

ACYCLOVIR (Zovirax®) belongs to the family of medicines known as antivirals, which are used to treat infections that may caused by viruses. Mostly these medicines work for only one kind or group of virus infections. Acyclovir is also used to prevent recurrent genital herpes infections. Zovirax liquid, capsules, and tablets are used in the treatment of certain infections with herpes viruses. These include genital herpes, shingles, and chickenpox.

Zovirax Dosage

• For Genital Herpes, the usual dose is one 200-milligram capsule or 1 teaspoonful of liquid every 4 hours, 5 times daily for 10 days.
• For Herpes Cold Sores, apply Zovirax cream to the affected area 5 times a day for 4 days. Therapy should begin as soon as possible after the first sign of a cold sore such as a bump, tingling, redness, or itchiness.
• For Chickenpox, the usual adult dose is 800 milligrams 4 times a day for 5 days.

Uses of Zovirax

• Zovirax is an antiviral used to treat shingles, chickenpox, or genital herpes.
• Acyclovir is also used to prevent recurrent genital herpes infections.
• Zovirax may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Side Effects of Zovirax

If you are using Zovirax, then discuss the side effects of Zovirax with your doctor and if you feel any develop or change in intensity, then tell your doctor immediately. Because only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Zovirax. Side effects may include:

• Aggressive behavior
• agitation
• dizziness
• fever
• hair lossng
• sleepiness
• swelling
• swollen face and throat
• swollen lymph nodes
• tingling
• upset stomach
• vision problems
• yellowish skin and eyes

Warnings and precautions before taking Zovirax:

• If you have kidney disorder, then consult your doctor before taking Zovirax. Because the drug has been known to cause kidney failure.
• If you feel or develop unusual bruising or bleeding under the skin, then consult with your doctor immediately. It could signal a dangerous blood disorder.

Drug Interaction:- If you are taking certain drugs with Zovirax, then it may be increased, decreased, or altered the effects of Zovirax. So discuss with your doctor before combining Zovirax with the following:

• Cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral)
• Interferon (Roferon-A)
• Probenecid (Benemid)
• Zidovudine (Retrovir)

Overdose

After taking Zovirax, If you feel that overdose is suspected, then contact with your doctor immediately. Symptoms of Zovirax overdose may include:

• Agitation
• kidney failure
• lethargy
• coma
• seizures