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Zovirax Ointment Side Effects

Generic name: acyclovir topical

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 24, 2023.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Zovirax Ointment Side Effects associated with acyclovir topical. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Zovirax Ointment.

Applies to acyclovir topical: topical cream, topical ointment.

Common side effects of Zovirax Ointment

Some side effects of acyclovir topical may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

  • mild pain, burning, or stinging

Less common side effects

Rare side effects

  • itching, stinging, or redness of the genital area
  • skin rash

Serious side effects of Zovirax Ointment

Along with its needed effects, acyclovir topical (the active ingredient contained in Zovirax Ointment) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Managing side effects (general information)

For healthcare professionals

Applies to acyclovir topical: topical cream, topical ointment.

General adverse events

The more commonly reported adverse effects have included local application site reactions including transient stinging and burning.[Ref]

Dermatologic

The incidence of events between the drug and placebo group appears to be similar. Where sensitivity tests have been conducted, the reactive substance has often been the component of the cream rather than the active drug.[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

Cardiovascular

References

1. (2017) "Product Information. Zovirax (acyclovir)." Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc

2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."

3. (2017) "Product Information. Zovirax Topical (acyclovir topical)." Valeant Pharmaceuticals

4. Wagstaff AJ, Faulds D, Goa KL (1994) "Aciclovir: a reappraisal of its antiviral activity, pharmacokinetic properties and therapeutic efficacy." Drugs, 47, p. 153-205

5. Reichman RC, Badger GJ, Guinan ME, Nahmias AJ, Keeney RE, Davis LG, Ashikaga T, Dolin R (1983) "Topically administered acyclovir in the treatment of recurrent herpes simplex genitalis: a controlled trial." J Infect Dis, 147, p. 336-40

6. Corey L, Nahmias AJ, Guinan ME, Benedetti JK, Critchlow CW, Holmes KK (1982) "A trial of topical acyclovir in genital herpes simplex virus infections." N Engl J Med, 306, p. 1313-9

7. Gola M, Francalanci S, Brusi C, Lombardi P, Sertoli A (1989) "Contact sensitization to acyclovir." Contact Dermatitis, 20, p. 394-5

8. Gnann JW Jr, Barton NH, Whitley RJ (1983) "Acyclovir: mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, safety and clinical applications." Pharmacotherapy, 3, p. 275-83

9. Koch P (1995) "No evidence of contact sensitization to acyclovir in acute dermatitis of the lips following local application of zovirax cream." Contact Dermatitis, 33, p. 255-7

Further information

Zovirax Ointment side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

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