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Proper Use of This Medicine
Your medication should not be shared with others, and the prescribed dose should not be exceeded. You can take Zovirax with or without food.
Zovirax ointment should not be used in or near th
e eyes. To reduce the risk of spreading the infection, use a rubber glove to apply the ointment.
Zovirax cream should not be used in or near the eyes, or inside the nose or mouth. The medica
tion can, however, be applied on the outside of the lips. Apply the cream with your fingers to clean, dry skin. Be sure to wash your hands before and after applying Zovirax cream, and avoid bathing or
swimming afterward to prevent it from washing off. Do not cover the cold sore with a bandage or make-up unless your doctor approves.
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Overdosage
Zovirax is generally safe. However, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
Symptoms of Zovirax overdose
may include:
- Agitation, kidney failure, lethargy, coma, seizures
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What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Zovirax.
More common side effects may include:
- Diarrhea, general feeling of bodily discomfort, nausea, vomiting
Other reported side effects include:
- Aggressive behavior, agitation,
allergic reactions, blood in the urine, coma, confusion, decreased consciousness, delirium, dizziness, fever, hair loss, hallucinations, headache, hives, itching, kidney failure, lack of coordination
, pain, psychosis, rash, seizures, skin peeling, sleepiness, swelling, swollen face and throat, swollen lymph nodes, tingling, upset stomach, vision problems,
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Why is this drug prescribed?
Zovirax is an antiviral agent that is active against the herpes virus infections of the genitals, skin, brain, and mucous membranes. The drug is also used to treat other viral infections such as shin
gles and chickenpox. Zovirax is used both systematically and topically, but usually will only help with the symptoms and will not lead to a cure of the virus. Side effects include pain, swelling, incr
eased thirst, loss of appetite, and nausea
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Proper Use of This Medicine
Patient information about the treatment of herpes, chickenpox, or shingles is available with this medicine. Read it carefully before using this medicine.
Zovirax is best used as soon as possi
ble after the symptoms of herpes infection or shingles (for example, pain, burning, blisters) begin to appear.
If you are taking Zovirax for the treatment of chickenpox , it is best to start
taking Zovirax as soon as possible after the first sign of the chickenpox rash, usually within one day.
Zovirax capsules, tablets, and oral suspension may be taken with meals or on an empty s
tomach.
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Cautions
This medication should be used cautiously during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.
Avoid s
exual activity while signs and symptoms of genital herpes are present to prevent infecting your partner. Inform your doctor if this medication does not appear to decrease the frequency or severity of
recurrent infections.
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