Zovirax 5% Cream

Acyclovir (also spelled aciclovir) is an antiviral medicine. It stops herpes viruses from multiplying, which helps the infection heal.

It is used to treat:

• cold sores
• shingles and chickenpox
• genital herpes
• herpes simplex infections of the eye

It is also sometimes used to prevent these infections in people with a weak immune system.

Use it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you, and start as early as possible.

• Tablets: swallow whole with a little water, or stir into a glass of water to dissolve. Drink plenty of fluids while taking them.
• Cream: wash your hands before and after, and apply a thin layer as soon as you feel tingling. Do not use it inside the mouth, nose or vagina, or near the eyes.
• Eye ointment: place it inside the lower eyelid and keep using it for a few days after the eye has healed, as directed.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless the next dose is nearly due. Never take two doses together.

See a doctor if a cold sore has not healed after 9 days (10 days for genital herpes).

Common side effects of the tablets include:

• headache, dizziness or feeling faint
• feeling or being sick, diarrhoea, stomach ache
• rash, itching or skin sensitivity to sunlight
• tiredness or a high temperature

The cream and eye ointment may sting briefly.

Get medical help straight away if you have:

• swelling of the tongue or throat, an itchy raised rash or trouble breathing
• yellow skin or eyes, or itchy skin with tiredness (liver problems)
• little or no pee (kidney problems)
• unusual bruising, tiredness or frequent infections

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before using it if you:

• have ever reacted to acyclovir or valacyclovir
• have kidney problems
• have a weak immune system, or a severe cold sore
• take probenecid, cimetidine or mycophenolate mofetil (tablets only)

Store as directed on the pack or leaflet, and keep out of the reach of children. Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.

Pregnancy: it can usually be used, but check with your doctor or pharmacist first.

Breastfeeding: the cream and eye ointment can usually be used, keeping them away from areas your baby may touch. Tell your doctor before taking the tablets.

Driving: if the tablets make you dizzy or faint, do not drive, cycle or use machines.

Alcohol: you can drink alcohol while using it.