Generic name: Acyclovir Ointment [ ay-SYE-kloe-veer ]
Brand name: Zovirax
Drug class: Topical antivirals

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 22, 2023.

Uses of Zovirax:

• It is used to treat genital warts.
• It is used to treat herpes infections.

What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Zovirax?

• If you are allergic to Zovirax (acyclovir ointment); any part of Zovirax (acyclovir ointment); or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.

This medicine may interact with other drugs or health problems.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take Zovirax (acyclovir ointment) with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.

What are some things I need to know or do while I take Zovirax?

• Tell all of your health care providers that you take Zovirax (acyclovir ointment). This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
• Talk with your doctor before you use other drugs or products on your skin.
• This medicine is not a cure for herpes infections. Talk with the doctor.
• If you have genital herpes, Zovirax (acyclovir ointment) will not stop it from spreading. Do not have any kind of sex when you have sores or other signs of genital herpes. Genital herpes can also be spread if you do not have any signs. Do not have any kind of sex without using a latex or polyurethane condom. Talk with your doctor.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on getting pregnant, or are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks to you and the baby.

How is this medicine (Zovirax) best taken?

Use Zovirax (acyclovir ointment) as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

• Use as you have been told, even if your signs get better.
• Do not take Zovirax (acyclovir ointment) by mouth. Use on your skin only. Keep out of your mouth, nose, and eyes (may burn).
• Wash your hands before and after use.
• Clean affected part before use. Make sure to dry well.
• Put a thin layer on the affected skin and rub in gently.
• Use a rubber glove to put on the ointment. This helps to prevent the spread of infection.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

• Put on a missed dose as soon as you think about it.
• If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time.
• Do not put on 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.

Related/similar drugs

acyclovir, valacyclovir, Valtrex, Zovirax, tetracaine topical, docosanol topical, Abreva

What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.

What are some other side effects of Zovirax?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Skin irritation.
• Burning or stinging.
• Dry skin.
• Itching.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

How do I store and/or throw out Zovirax?

• Store at room temperature. Do not freeze.
• Protect from heat.
• Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
• Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

• If your symptoms or health problems do not get better or if they become worse, call your doctor.
• Do not share your drugs with others and do not take anyone else's drugs.
• Some drugs may have another patient information leaflet. Check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions about Zovirax (acyclovir ointment), please talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
• If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer