Acyclovir - generic Zovirax
- is a prescription cream medication used at the initial signs of a herpes outbreak, such as
mouth ulcers, cold sores, lip blisters, and genital herpes caused by Herpes Simplex Virus.
Zovirax also treats shingles and chickenpox infections. Viral
illnesses differ from bacterial infections in that viruses are not
living organisms, but rather take over living cells and reproduce
themselves, often at the expense of the host cell. Acyclovir is an
antiviral drug which acts against the Herpes viruses, including herpes
simplex 1 and 2 (cold sores and genital herpes), varicella-zoster
(shingles and chicken pox), and the Epstein-Barr virus (mononucleosis).
Zovirax inhibits the replication of viral DNA needed to reproduce
itself. Virally infected cells absorb more acyclovir than normal cells
and convert more of it to an active form which prolongs its antiviral
activity where it is most needed.
Zovirax cream is selectively absorbed into cells infected with Herpes Simplex Virus. Within the infected cell,
Herpes Simplex Virus coded enzymes convert Zovirax into its active form. This active form of Zovirax interferes with viral DNA
replication, inhibiting replication and growth of Herpes Simplex Virus.
SIDE EFFECTS: Rare side effects in patients treated short-term
with acyclovir are nausea, vomiting, and headache. Long-term treatment
has the additional potential for rash and diarrhea. |
