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Drug Interactions
If Zovirax is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Zovirax with the fo
llowing:
- Cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral)
- Interferon (Roferon-A)
- Probenecid (Benemid)
- Zidovudine (Retrovir)
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Cautions
If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, check with your doctor.
The areas affected by herpes, chickenpox, or shingles should be kept as clean and dry as po
ssible. Also, wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid irritating the sores (blisters).
It is important to remember that Zovirax will not keep you from spreading herpes to others.
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How should this medicine be used?
Begin taking this medication as soon as symptoms appear. Take this medication as directed. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Try to take the medication at evenly spaced interval
s throughout the day and night. This will ensure a constant blood level of the medication and is most effective.
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Precautions Before Using This Medicine
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of using the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For Zovirax, the following should be consi
dered:
Allergies¡XTell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to Zovirax. Also tell your health care professional if you are allergic to any other substances, such
s preservatives or dyes.
Pregnancy¡XTopical Zovirax has not been studied in pregnant women. However, this medicine has not been shown to cause birth defects or other problems in animal studie
using mice, rats, or rabbits, except when given in very high doses in a study using rats.
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What side effects can this medication cause?
Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Zovirax.
Common side effects of Zovirax ointment may include:
- Burning, itching, mild pain, skin rash, stinging,
vaginal inflammation
Side effects of Zovirax cream may include:
- Allergic reactions, burning, dry or cracked lips, dry or flaky skin, eczema (inflamed, irritated patches of skin), hive
s, inflammation, itchy spots, stinging
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Why is this drug prescribed?
Zovirax liquid, capsules, and tablets are used in the treatment of certain infections with herpes viruses. These include genital herpes, shingles, and chickenpox. This drug may not be appropriate for
everyone, and its use should be thoroughly discussed with your doctor. Zovirax ointment is used to treat initial episodes of genital herpes and certain herpes simplex infections of the skin and mucous
membranes. Zovirax cream is used for herpes cold sores on the lips and face only.
Some doctors use Zovirax, along with other drugs, in the treatment of AIDS, and for unusual herpes infectio
ns such as those following kidney and bone marrow transplants
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