Chickenpox is a common childhood skin disease caused by a viral infection. The virus involved is called the varicella-zoster virus. Today, chickenpox is less common in the United States due to universal vaccination with the varicella virus vaccine, though it still occurs in populations that are not routinely vaccinated. Varicella-zoster virus is often categorized with the other common so-called "viral exanthems" (viral rashes) such as measles (rubeola), German measles (rubella), fifth disease (parvovirus B19), mumps virus, and roseola (human herpesvirus 6), but these viruses are unrelated except for their tendency to cause rashes.
In unimmunized populations, most people contract chickenpox by age 15, the majority between ages 5 and 9, but all ages can contract it. Chickenpox is usually more severe in adults and very young infants than children. Winter and spring are the most common times of the year for chicke...
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Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Acyclovir will not cure herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection.
Acyclovir topical is used to treat cold sores and genital herpes.
Acyclovir topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as itching, swelling, or pain where the medicine is applied.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Use this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated.
Treatment with acyclovir topical should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).
Wear a glove or a finger cot or use a cotton swab when applying acyclovir topical to avoid spreading the virus to other body parts and to other people.
Avoid getting this medication in your eyes.
Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with acyclovir topical. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people. Avoid touching an infected area and then touching your eyes. Wash your hands frequently to prevent passing the infection to others.
Here is a collection of user reviews for the medication Zovirax Ointment sorted by most helpful.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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