Zovirax Syr

ZOVIRAX SYR is an antiviral medication produced by GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare Ltd., primarily used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses.

Name

• Common Name: Acyclovir Oral Suspension
• Brand Name: ZOVIRAX SYR, Zovirax Oral Suspension

Composition

ZOVIRAX SYR contains aciclovir (acyclovir) as its active ingredient. The suspension is commonly available as 200 mg aciclovir per 5 mL, in a banana-flavoured oral suspension.

Uses

ZOVIRAX SYR is prescribed for the treatment and prevention of various viral infections caused by herpes viruses, including:

• Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections of the skin and mucous membranes, such as cold sores and initial or recurrent genital herpes.
• Varicella (chickenpox).
• Herpes zoster (shingles) infections, which can help reduce nerve pain if started early.
• Prophylaxis of herpes simplex infections in immunocompromised patients.

Dosage and Administration

Always take ZOVIRAX SYR exactly as advised by your doctor. Shake the bottle well before use and measure each dose accurately with a specially marked oral syringe or spoon. It can be taken with or without food. Drink plenty of fluids while on this medication to prevent side effects. Dosage varies based on the condition being treated, patient age, and immune status. For example, treatment of herpes simplex infections in adults typically involves 200 mg (one 5 mL spoonful) five times daily for five days.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Feeling dizzy
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Stomach pains
• Fatigue or feeling tired
• Skin reactions after exposure to light (photosensitivity)

Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical attention if experienced):

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing)
• Kidney damage (decreased urine, swelling of ankles, hands, or feet)
• Confusion, hallucinations, agitation, or seizures

Precautions

• Inform your doctor if you have kidney problems or are over 65 years of age, as dosage adjustments may be necessary.
• Maintain adequate hydration by drinking plenty of liquids.
• Discuss all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products, with your doctor to avoid potential interactions (e.g., with probenecid, cimetidine, mycophenolate mofetil).
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before taking ZOVIRAX SYR.
• This medicine is not a cure for herpes viruses, but it helps manage symptoms and stop viral growth.

Storage

Store ZOVIRAX SYR at room temperature, generally below 25°C or 30°C, and protect it from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children.

What is Zovirax Syrup used for?

Zovirax Syrup, containing aciclovir, is an antiviral medication primarily used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses. These include herpes simplex virus infections of the skin and mucous membranes, such as cold sores and initial or recurrent genital herpes. It is also prescribed for the treatment of chickenpox (varicella) and shingles (herpes zoster) infections. Additionally, it can be used to prevent recurrent herpes simplex infections in individuals with normal immune systems and to prevent herpes simplex infections in immunocompromised patients.

How does Zovirax Syrup work?

Zovirax Syrup works by interfering with the multiplication of the herpes virus in human cells. The active ingredient, aciclovir, is a synthetic purine nucleoside analogue. It is selectively converted into an active form by a viral enzyme, thymidine kinase. This active form then inhibits viral DNA polymerase, an enzyme essential for the virus to replicate its DNA, effectively stopping the growth and spread of the virus.

What is the usual dosage for Zovirax Syrup?

The dosage of Zovirax Syrup varies significantly depending on the infection being treated, the patient's age, and their immune status. For adults, typical dosages for herpes simplex infections can be 200 mg five times a day for five days. For chickenpox or shingles, doses might be higher, such as 800 mg four to five times a day for five to ten days. Children's doses are often based on body weight. It is crucial to follow the exact dosage and duration prescribed by your doctor and use a specially marked spoon or measuring device.

What are the possible side effects of Zovirax Syrup?

Common side effects of Zovirax Syrup may include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pains. Some people may also experience skin reactions after exposure to light (photosensitivity) or itching. More serious, but less common, side effects that should be reported to a healthcare team immediately include allergic reactions (skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat), confusion, hallucinations, kidney injury (decreased urine, swelling of ankles/hands/feet), and seizures.

Is Zovirax Syrup safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Zovirax (aciclovir) is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, falling under Pregnancy Category B, meaning animal studies have not shown a risk, but human studies are either lacking or haven't confirmed a risk. A large epidemiologic registry of aciclovir use during pregnancy has not shown an increased risk of birth defects.

For breastfeeding mothers, aciclovir passes into breast milk in small amounts. However, these amounts are unlikely to cause adverse effects in nursing infants, as acyclovir is commonly given to newborns. Caution is generally advised, and it should be administered to a nursing woman only if the potential benefits outweigh any potential risks, as determined by a doctor.

Can Zovirax Syrup be taken with other medications?

Yes, Zovirax Syrup can interact with certain other medications. It is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbal products, and dietary supplements you are taking. Medications that compete for renal tubular secretion or can cause kidney damage may increase the levels of aciclovir in the body or increase the risk of kidney issues. These include drugs like probenecid, cimetidine, mycophenolate mofetil, adefovir, amphotericin B, and certain antibiotics (e.g., amikacin, gentamicin, vancomycin).

What precautions should be taken while using Zovirax Syrup?

While taking Zovirax Syrup, it is very important to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, regularly throughout the day to help prevent dehydration and potential kidney damage. Caution is advised for elderly patients and those with kidney problems, as they may have reduced kidney function and are at an increased risk of neurological side effects. Your doctor may need to adjust the dosage in these cases. Zovirax Syrup contains sorbitol and parabens (methyl parahydroxybenzoate and propyl parahydroxybenzoate). If you have a rare hereditary fructose intolerance or are allergic to parabens, discuss this with your doctor, as these ingredients may cause allergic reactions or gastrointestinal discomfort. Do not stop taking the medicine early, even if you feel better, to ensure the infection is fully treated.

What happens if a dose of Zovirax Syrup is missed?

If you miss a dose of Zovirax Syrup, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten one.

How should Zovirax Syrup be stored?

Zovirax Suspension should be stored at controlled room temperature, typically between 15°C and 25°C (or below 30°C), in a dry place, and protected from excessive heat, moisture, or direct sunlight. It should not be allowed to freeze. Before each use, shake the bottle well. Always keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.