ACYCLOVIR OINTMENT - TOPICAL

ACYCLOVIR OINTMENT - TOPICAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (ay-SYE-kloe-vir)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zovirax

GENERIC NAME(S): acyclovir

Uses

USES: This medication is used to treat the first outbreak of genital herpes infection. It is also used to treat non-life-threatening herpes infections of the skin and around the mouth (cold sores) in people with a weakened immune system. This medication may decrease the length of time you have pain and help the sores heal faster. Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It stops the growth of certain viruses. This medication does not cure herpes or prevent the infection from coming back. Also, it does not prevent the spread of herpes to others. Other antiviral medications taken by mouth may be more effective in treating these conditions. Discuss your treatment options with your doctor.


How to use ACYCLOVIR OINTMENT - TOPICAL

HOW TO USE: Apply this medication to skin only. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes. If this happens, wash right away with plenty of water. Begin using acyclovir as soon as symptoms of a herpes infection appear. Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medication. Clean and dry the affected areas before applying the medication. Use a finger cot or rubber glove when applying acyclovir to prevent spreading the infection to other parts of your body and to other people. Apply enough ointment to cover all sores, usually every 3 hours, 6 times a day, or as directed by your doctor. Continue to use this medication for the full time prescribed. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve after 7 days of treatment or if it worsens.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause mild, temporary burning or stinging when you apply it. If either of these effects persists or worsens, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before using acyclovir, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to valacyclovir; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as polyethylene glycol), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Cold sores can spread easily. Avoid close physical contact with others (such as kissing) during an outbreak until the cold sores have completely healed. Try not to touch the cold sore. If you do, wash your hands afterward. To lower the chance of giving genital herpes to your partner, do not have sexual contact during an outbreak or if you have symptoms. You can spread genital herpes even if you do not have symptoms. Therefore, always use an effective barrier method (latex or polyurethane condoms/dental dams) during all sexual activity. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. Avoid breastfeeding if you have herpes sores on or near your breast.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

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Faq for ACYCLOVIR OINTMENT - TOPICAL

- Acyclovir ointment is a medication used topically to treat the symptoms of herpes infections on the skin, lips, and genitals.

- Acyclovir ointment works by inhibiting the growth and spread of the herpes virus, thus reducing the severity and duration of outbreaks.

- Wash your hands before and after application. Apply a thin layer of the ointment to the affected area(s) and gently rub it in until it disappears. Use the ointment every 3 hours, 6 times a day for a period of 7 days.

- Acyclovir ointment cannot cure herpes, as it only helps in managing the symptoms and reducing the duration of outbreaks.

- Some common side effects may include mild pain or stinging at the application site. Serious allergic reactions are rare but possible. Contact your doctor if you experience any severe side effects.

- It is generally considered safe to use acyclovir ointment during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, but it's best to consult with your doctor before using any medication.

- Yes, acyclovir ointment is commonly used for treating cold sores (oral herpes) on the lips and face.

- If the ointment accidentally gets into your eyes, mouth, or nose, rinse thoroughly with water. If irritation persists, seek medical attention.

- Acyclovir ointment is specifically used for treating herpes infections and should not be used for other skin conditions. Consult your doctor for appropriate treatment options.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.