Zovirax (Aciclovir) Explained: Benefits, Risks, Dosage
Aciclovir (Zovirax) Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Safety
Learn what Aciclovir (Zovirax) is used for, how it treats herpes, shingles, and chickenpox, recommended dosage, side effects, safety warnings, pregnancy use, and drug interactions. Updated 2025 medical guidance.
What Is Aciclovir (Zovirax)?
Aciclovir (also spelled Acyclovir) is an antiviral prescription medication used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including:
- Genital Herpes (HSV-2)
- Cold Sores (HSV-1)
- Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
- Chickenpox (Varicella)
It works by preventing the virus from multiplying, helping reduce symptoms, shorten outbreaks, and lower the risk of recurrent infection.
Aciclovir is available in multiple forms:
- Tablets / Capsules
- Oral Suspension
- Topical Cream / Ointment
- IV Injection (Hospital Use)
Aciclovir is one of the most widely used antiviral treatments globally and remains a first-line therapy. However, resistant strains can develop, especially in patients with weakened immune systems.
How Aciclovir Works
Aciclovir interferes with viral DNA replication. It does not cure herpes, but it helps:
- Reduce outbreak severity
- Shorten healing time
- Lower pain and discomfort
- Reduce viral shedding (risk of transmission)
For best results, treatment should start as early as possible—ideally when you first feel tingling, itching, or notice a rash.
Uses of Aciclovir
| Condition | Typical Purpose |
| Genital Herpes | Treat outbreaks / suppress recurrences |
| Cold Sores | Reduce duration & severity |
| Shingles | Reduce nerve pain & rash severity |
| Chickenpox | Reduce symptom duration (mainly for adults) |
Aciclovir Dosage (Common Prescribing Guidelines)
| Condition | Typical Adult Dose |
| Shingles | 800 mg 5 times daily for 7–10 days |
| Initial Genital Herpes | 200 mg 5 times daily for 10 days |
| Suppressive Therapy | 400 mg twice daily (long-term) |
| Chickenpox | 800 mg 4 times daily for 5 days |
Dosages may vary based on:
- Age
- Kidney function
- Severity of infection
Drink plenty of water while taking Aciclovir to protect the kidneys.
Who Should Avoid Aciclovir?
Use caution if you have:
- Kidney disease
- Severe dehydration
- Weak immune system
Children under 2 years should not take oral Aciclovir unless specifically prescribed.
Possible Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea, vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Mild skin irritation (in topical use)
Rare But Serious Side Effects:
- Kidney problems (low urine output, blood in urine)
- Allergic reaction (rash, swelling, breathing problems)
- Confusion or hallucinations (more common in elderly)
- Severe skin reactions (blistering rash)
Seek medical help if severe symptoms occur.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor if you take:
- NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen)
- Aminoglycoside antibiotics (gentamicin, tobramycin)
- HIV medications (zidovudine, tenofovir)
- Probenecid
These may increase kidney strain when combined with Aciclovir.
Aciclovir During Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
- Evidence suggests low risk, and Aciclovir is commonly used during late pregnancy to prevent herpes transmission during childbirth.
- However, always consult your doctor before use.
Aciclovir may pass into breast milk.
Storage
- Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
- Keep out of reach of children.
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