Zovirax (Acyclovir) Uses and Dosage

What is Zovirax (Acyclovir)?

Zovirax is one of the widely-used antiviral drugs for herpes treatment. Although it does not cure the infection, it helps lessen the effects of herpes symptoms on the body. This drug comes in capsules, tablets, and topical cream or ointment. Zovirax is available under the generic name Acyclovir. Very important to follow instructions and read about acyclovir dosage.

Acyclovir is part of a drug class called Antivirals. Besides Zovirax, you can purchase Acyclovir under the brand name Sitavig.

What is it used for?

Zovirax is the main form of treatment for herpes infection. It treats cold sores, shingles, chickenpox, and genital herpes. This drug is highly efficient in reducing episodes of the herpes outbreak. Although it does not eliminate the virus from the body, it decreases the severity of the infection.

Herpes covers symptoms like inflammation, itchiness, and the formation of sores. Thankfully, Zovirax can reduce the painful sensation from cold sores and hives. It also supports the body’s immune system by preventing the virus from affecting other parts or organs of the body.

Acyclovir Dosage

As mentioned, Zovirax comes in different forms. You can administer it as a capsule, tablet, or cream. However, you need to follow your doctor’s recommendation.

Before obtaining your Zovirax prescription, your healthcare professional will check on some factors to ensure your safety with this medicine. These are as follows:

• Age and weight
• Medical history
• Pre-existing medical conditions
• Other drugs you are taking before a herpes diagnosis

One dose of Zovirax is 200 mg. The dosage will also depend on what type of herpes infection you have.

Herpes Zoster Treatment:

• Take 800 mg of Zovirax orally every 4 hours daily.
• This treatment period covers 7 to 10 days.

Genital Herpes Treatment:

• Take 200 mg of Zovirax orally every 4 hours
• This therapy period also takes ten days in total.

Chickenpox Treatment (for adults):

• Take 800 mg of Zovirax orally four times daily.
• The therapy session will only take five days.

Chickenpox Treatment (for children/pediatrics):

• The treatment for children will depend on their weight. However, the standard dosage is 20 mg/kg to be consumed four times daily. If the children receiving treatment are over 40 kg, they should receive the dosage for adults.

How you take the medication will depend on the drug form you will receive. For children who can’t take a whole capsule or tablet, an oral suspension is available for them.

How to take Zovirax?

After receiving your Zovirax prescription, please take it as directed by your healthcare professional. Follow the prescription label and consider the medication guides as you start your treatment. If you have a hard time understanding the instructions, ask your healthcare professional at once.

For adults taking the capsule or tablet form of Zovirax, take it with or without food. Your healthcare professional might recommend taking it with food to avoid stomachaches. Drink lots of water to support the digestion process.

An oral suspension form of Zovirax is available for children or pediatrics who may have difficulty taking the tablet. Shake the bottle well before administering the dosage. Use a measuring device to ensure the accurate measurement of each dose.

Note: Do not change your dose unless your healthcare professional advises you. Failure to follow the instructions can put your treatment at risk.

Acyclovir Interactions

Your healthcare professional will first check on your medical history before providing you with the prescription. It also includes disclosing other medicines you are currently taking before receiving a diagnosis of herpes. These are all necessary for the healthcare professional to avoid drug interactions when you begin with your Zovirax treatment.

Drug interactions can be dangerous. It will not only cause your treatment with Zovirax to become less effective but also causes other health complications. Discuss your medical condition and pre-existing health concerns with your healthcare professional.

Warnings and Precautions

You are prohibited from using Zovirax if you are allergic or hypersensitive to this medicine. Note that hypersensitivity can be fatal, so avoid using it for your safety.

This medicine may not be safe to use during pregnancy. Ask your healthcare professional about its precautions.

Before consuming this medicine, tell your healthcare professional if you have the following conditions:

• Kidney infection
• Impaired immune system

Ccan cause severe side effects if use more than the (Zovirax) Acyclovir dosage. Report your condition to your doctor immediately if you experience the most severe adverse reactions. That is also why taking this medicine according to the doctor’s instructions is necessary.