Zovirax 800 Mg Tablet ( 5 Tab )

ZOVIRAX 800 MG TABLET

ZOVIRAX 800 MG TABLET is an antiviral medication manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Limited.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: ZOVIRAX
  • Common Name: Aciclovir (or Acyclovir)

• Composition:

  • Active Ingredient: Each tablet contains 800 mg of Aciclovir (Acyclovir).
  • Inactive Ingredients: Contains excipients such as microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, sodium starch glycollate, magnesium stearate, and a film coating system.

• Uses: ZOVIRAX 800 MG TABLET is prescribed for the treatment of various viral infections caused by herpes viruses, working by preventing the multiplication of the virus in human cells. It helps to minimize symptoms and shorten the duration of the infection, though it does not cure the viral infection or remove the virus from the body.

  Specific conditions include:

  • Herpes Zoster (Shingles): Treatment of the painful rash associated with shingles, and it may reduce the incidence of post-herpetic neuralgia.
  • Genital Herpes: Management of initial and recurrent outbreaks, as well as chronic suppressive therapy to prevent recurrences.
  • Cold Sores (Herpes Labialis).
  • Chickenpox (Varicella): Used to treat the highly contagious viral infection.
  • Herpes Simplex Virus Infections of the skin and mucous membranes.
  • Advanced Symptomatic HIV Disease: As part of the management program for certain infections in patients with HIV.

• Dosage and Administration: ZOVIRAX 800 MG TABLET should be taken orally, with or without food, as directed by a healthcare professional. It is recommended to drink plenty of water while taking this medicine to prevent dehydration and kidney injury. For optimal results, treatment should be initiated as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms.

  Typical adult dosages vary based on the treated condition:

  • For Shingles: Usually 800 mg five times a day for 7 to 10 days.
  • For Chickenpox (Adults and Children over 40 kg): Typically 800 mg four times a day for 5 days.
  • For Genital Herpes (Initial Treatment): Often 200 mg five times a day for 10 days.
  • For Chronic Suppressive Therapy of Recurrent Genital Herpes: Typically 400 mg twice daily for up to 12 months, or 200 mg three to five times daily.

  The exact dose and duration of treatment will be determined by your doctor based on your specific medical condition and response to therapy. Do not skip doses or discontinue the medicine without consulting your doctor. Dosage adjustments may be necessary for elderly patients or those with kidney impairment.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, fatigue, skin rash, and increased sensitivity to sunlight. These side effects are usually temporary and may not require medical attention.
  • Serious Side Effects: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe allergic reactions (e.g., hives, swelling of the face/lips/tongue/throat, difficulty breathing), confusion, hallucinations, seizures, kidney injury (indicated by decreased urine output, swelling of ankles/hands/feet, or kidney pain), unusual changes in mood or behavior, or signs of liver problems.

• Precautions:

  • Allergies: Do not take ZOVIRAX if you are allergic to aciclovir, valaciclovir, or any of its components.
  • Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor about any existing medical conditions, especially kidney disease, a weakened immune system, HIV/AIDS, heart problems, dehydration, or neurological issues, as dosage adjustments or close monitoring may be required.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Acyclovir can cross the placenta and pass into breast milk, and the benefits and risks should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all other prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking or plan to take. ZOVIRAX may interact with certain medicines, including probenecid, cimetidine, and mycophenolate mofetil.
  • Driving and Operating Machinery: ZOVIRAX may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
  • Herpes Transmission: Acyclovir does not prevent the spread of herpes to others. Avoid sexual contact when you have active lesions or symptoms of an outbreak to reduce the risk of transmission.

• Storage: Store ZOVIRAX 800 MG TABLET in its original packaging in a closed container at room temperature, typically between 20°C to 25°C, and below 30°C. Protect the tablets from heat, moisture, and direct light, and do not freeze. Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children and pets.

Zovirax 800 MG Tablet is an antiviral medication that contains Aciclovir as its active ingredient. It is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Limited. This medicine is used to treat various viral infections caused by herpes viruses.

Here are some frequently asked questions about Zovirax 800 MG Tablet:

What is Zovirax 800 MG Tablet used for?

Zovirax 800 MG Tablet is primarily used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including cold sores (herpes labialis), genital herpes, shingles (herpes zoster), and chickenpox. It can also be used to manage recurrent episodes of genital herpes and in patients with advanced symptomatic HIV disease.

How does Zovirax 800 MG Tablet work?

Zovirax (Aciclovir) is an antiviral drug that works by slowing the growth and spread of the herpes virus in the body. It does this by preventing the multiplication of the virus in human cells, specifically by acting on its DNA. This reduces the length and severity of an outbreak and helps the sores heal faster, while also decreasing pain and itching. It does not, however, cure herpes or remove the virus completely from your body.

What is the usual dosage for Zovirax 800 MG Tablet?

For the treatment of shingles (herpes zoster) in adults, the usual dose is one 800 mg tablet taken five times a day (approximately every four hours while awake) for 7 to 10 days. For chickenpox in adults and children over 40 kg, the dose is typically 800 mg four times a day for 5 days. Doses for other conditions and in children may vary and are determined by your doctor, often based on weight. It is crucial to take the medicine exactly as prescribed and for the full duration of treatment.

What are the possible side effects of Zovirax 800 MG Tablet?

Common side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, headache, dizziness, fatigue, and skin rash. Less common side effects may include itching or skin sensitivity to sunlight. Serious side effects are rare but can include severe allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/tongue/throat), changes in behavior, confusion, hallucinations, or signs of kidney problems (little or no urinating, painful urination, swelling in feet or ankles). If you experience any severe side effects, seek immediate medical attention.

Is Zovirax 800 MG Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Zovirax may be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It has been safely used to treat genital herpes in women during all stages of pregnancy, and suppressive therapy late in pregnancy may reduce the frequency of cesarean delivery. Acyclovir enters breast milk in small amounts, but it is commonly given to newborns and is not typically expected to cause problems for babies. However, it is always recommended to consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Can Zovirax 800 MG Tablet be taken with other medications?

Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medicines can interact with Zovirax, such as probenecid (used to prevent gout), cimetidine (used to treat gastric ulcers), diuretics (fluid tablets), and mycophenolate mofetil (used to prevent organ rejection). These interactions can increase the plasma concentrations of acyclovir or affect how well either medicine works.

What precautions should be taken with Zovirax 800 MG Tablet?

Drink plenty of water while taking Zovirax to keep your kidneys working properly and help prevent dehydration and kidney damage. If you have kidney problems or are over 65 years of age, your doctor may need to adjust your dose, and you should be monitored closely. Herpes infections are contagious even while being treated, so avoid contact with infected areas and wash your hands frequently. Zovirax will not prevent the spread of genital herpes to a sexual partner; use barrier methods (like condoms) and avoid sexual intercourse during outbreaks.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of Zovirax, 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 missed one.

How should Zovirax 800 MG Tablet be stored?

Store Zovirax tablets at room temperature, between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), away from moisture and heat. Keep the medicine in its original package and out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use the medicine after its expiry date.