Zovirax 200mg Tab (5 Tab)

Name

• Brand Name: ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLET
• Common Name: Aciclovir (or Acyclovir)

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Each tablet contains 200 mg of Aciclovir.

Uses ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLET is an antiviral medicine used to treat various viral infections caused by herpes viruses. It works by stopping the growth and multiplication of these viruses.

• Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infections:
  • Treatment of cold sores (herpes labialis).
  • Treatment of initial and recurrent genital herpes infections.
  • Suppression (prevention of recurrences) of recurrent herpes simplex infections in immunocompetent patients.
  • Prophylaxis of herpes simplex infections in immunocompromised patients.
• Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) Infections:
  • Treatment of chickenpox.
  • Treatment of shingles (herpes zoster).

Dosage and Administration The dosage of ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLET varies depending on the condition being treated and the patient's immune status and age. It should be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor. Tablets can be swallowed whole with water or dispersed in at least 50 ml of water.

• Treatment of Herpes Simplex Infections: Typically, 200 mg five times daily at approximately four-hourly intervals, omitting the night time dose, for 5 days.
• Suppression of Recurrent Herpes Simplex Infections: Usually, 200 mg four times daily at approximately six-hourly intervals, or 400 mg twice daily.
• Prophylaxis of Herpes Simplex in Immunocompromised Patients: Generally, 200 mg four times daily at approximately six-hourly intervals. The dose may be doubled to 400 mg in severely immunocompromised patients or those with impaired gut absorption.
• Treatment of Varicella (Chickenpox) and Herpes Zoster (Shingles): Typically, 800 mg five times daily at approximately four-hourly intervals, omitting the night time dose, for 7 days.
• Pediatric Dosage: Dosing may be adjusted for children based on age and weight; for children under 2 years, often half the adult dose.

Patients should maintain adequate hydration, especially when on high doses.

Side Effects Common side effects include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea, vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Rash, itching
• Skin sensitivity to sunlight

Serious, but rare, side effects may include:

• Allergic reactions (e.g., hives, swelling of face/lips/tongue/throat, difficulty breathing)
• Kidney problems (e.g., little or no urinating, painful urination, swelling in feet or ankles)
• Neurological effects (e.g., confusion, agitation, hallucinations, seizures, tremor, somnolence, coma)
• Blood disorders (e.g., anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia)

Precautions

• Kidney Impairment: Caution is advised in patients with kidney problems, and dosage adjustments may be necessary. Adequate hydration is crucial.
• Elderly Patients: Elderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects due to reduced kidney function; careful monitoring and dosage adjustment are recommended.
• Hydration: It is important to drink plenty of fluids while taking this medicine to prevent dehydration and kidney damage.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor before use if pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Driving and Machinery: Zovirax may cause dizziness or drowsiness, affecting alertness. Patients should be cautious before driving or operating machinery.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products, as some may interact with Zovirax (e.g., probenecid, cimetidine, mycophenolate mofetil).
• Contagion: Zovirax does not prevent the transmission of herpes infections to others. Patients should take precautions to avoid spreading the virus.

Storage Store ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLET below 30°C in its original packaging, in a cool, dark, and dry place, out of the sight and reach of children.

Here are some frequently asked questions about ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLETS (Acyclovir):

What is ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLETS used for?

ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLETS, containing the active ingredient acyclovir, is an antiviral medicine used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses. These infections include cold sores (herpes labialis), genital herpes, shingles (herpes zoster), and chickenpox (varicella). It can also be prescribed to prevent recurrent outbreaks of these infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.

How does ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLETS work?

ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLETS works by inhibiting the multiplication and spread of herpes viruses in the body. The active ingredient, acyclovir, is a synthetic purine nucleoside analogue that selectively interferes with viral DNA replication, thereby stopping the virus from producing new viruses and helping to clear the infection.

What is the usual dosage for ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLETS?

The dosage of ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLETS varies depending on the type and severity of the infection, as well as individual factors like age and kidney function.

• For treatment of herpes simplex infections (e.g., initial genital herpes): A common dose is 200 mg taken five times a day, approximately every four hours, for 5 to 10 days.
• For suppression of recurrent herpes simplex infections: The usual dose is 200 mg four times daily or 400 mg twice daily, which can be continued for up to 12 months.
• For treatment of shingles (herpes zoster): Typically, 800 mg is taken five times a day for 7 to 10 days.
• For treatment of chickenpox: For adults and children over 40 kg, the dose is usually 800 mg four times a day for 5 days. For children weighing 40 kg or less, the dose is based on body weight, typically 20 mg per kilogram of body weight four times a day for 5 days, not to exceed 800 mg per dose.

It is crucial to start taking Zovirax as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms and to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLETS?

Most people tolerate ZOVIRAX well, but some common side effects may include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, upset stomach, dizziness, weakness, muscle pain, and skin reactions like rash or itching.

Serious but rare side effects can occur, such as kidney problems (e.g., decreased urination, pain in the side/back, swelling of ankles or feet), unusual changes in mood or behavior (e.g., confusion, hallucinations, unsteady movements), severe skin reactions, liver problems, or allergic reactions (e.g., swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing). If you experience any severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

Is ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLETS safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

• Pregnancy: Studies in animals have not shown a risk to the fetus, and human studies have not found an increased chance of miscarriage or birth defects with acyclovir use. It has been safely used to treat genital herpes in women throughout pregnancy. However, it's always important to discuss the benefits and risks with your healthcare provider before taking any medication while pregnant.
• Breastfeeding: Acyclovir passes into breast milk in small amounts. It is commonly given to newborns and generally does not cause problems for breastfed babies. If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor to determine if ZOVIRAX is appropriate for you.

Can ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLETS be taken with other medications?

ZOVIRAX can interact with certain other medications. It is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medicines you are currently taking. Drugs that affect kidney function, such as probenecid, cimetidine, and mycophenolate mofetil, can increase the levels of acyclovir in the body. Some medications that increase the risk of kidney toxicity, like amphotericin B deoxycholate, cidofovir, and tacrolimus, should be used with caution or avoided.

What precautions should be taken while taking ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLETS?

• Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help your kidneys function properly and prevent dehydration.
• Complete the Course: Take the medicine for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve quickly. Stopping early can lead to the virus becoming resistant to the medication.
• Contagion: Herpes infections are contagious. ZOVIRAX does not prevent the spread of herpes to others. Avoid physical contact with infected areas and wash your hands frequently. If you have genital herpes, avoid sexual intercourse during active outbreaks.
• Specific Populations: Elderly patients and those with kidney problems may require dose adjustments and should be monitored closely due to an increased risk of side effects.
• Alertness: This medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness, so exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

What happens if a dose of ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLETS is missed?

If you miss a dose, 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 200MG TABLETS be stored?

Store ZOVIRAX 200MG TABLETS at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of the reach of children.