Zovirax
Formulated to target herpes simplex virus infection to alleviate painful symptoms and support healing.
- Category
- Antivirals
- Active ingredient
- Aciclovir
- Supply
- Pharmacy
- Route
- Oral use
- Form
- Tablet
- Strengths
- 200 · 400 · 800mg
Zovirax details
- Conditions
- Herpes Simplex · Varicella Zoster Infection
- Therapeutic class
- Antiviral Agent
- Pharmacological class
- Nucleoside analogue
- Contraindications
- hypersensitivity to acyclovir
- Precautions and warnings
- maintain adequate hydration; use with caution in patients with renal impairment
- Minor side effects
- nausea; headache
- Moderate side effects
- fatigue; skin rash
- Dosage forms
- Tablet
- Administration route
- Oral use
- Supply category
- Pharmacist only, dispensed without a prescription
- Manufacturer
- GSK
- Onset Time
- 1–2 hours
- Duration
- 4–5 hours
- Storage instructions
- Keep cool and dry.
- Drug interactions
- probenecid
- Age restrictions
- Suitable for all ages with appropriate dosing.
Serious side effects
neurological reactions, requires immediate medical attention; reversible renal impairment, requires immediate medical attention
Patient summary
Formulated to target herpes simplex virus infection to alleviate painful symptoms and support healing.
Mechanism of action
Acyclovir is a nucleoside analogue that is phosphorylated by the viral thymidine kinase. The resulting triphosphate inhibits viral DNA polymerase, preventing viral genome replication in herpes-infected cells.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Use only if potential benefit outweighs risk. Breastfeeding: Excreted in breast milk; use with caution.
Where this medicine is registered
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Indonesia
- Taiwan
- South Korea
- Japan
- Australia
- New Zealand
- UAE
- South Africa
About Zovirax
Zovirax is a product from GSK containing the active ingredient Aciclovir, commonly used to treat Herpes Simplex and Varicella Zoster Infection. This treatment is supplied as a tablet in strengths of 200, 400, and 800mg. It assists in managing viral outbreaks by slowing virus replication, which supports healing and symptom relief for those experiencing these infections.
Zovirax availability in Asia
Zovirax is registered across 14 markets including the Philippines, Indonesia and Taiwan, with availability also in South Korea, Japan and the UAE. Generic Aciclovir, much of it made in India, is a significantly more affordable alternative to the original brand for expats and individuals situated far from a well-stocked pharmacy. These treatment options are best used under the care of a medical professional to ensure appropriate management of viral health.