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.

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

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.

Apply enough acyclovir topical to cover the lesion(s) completely. This medication may be applied every 3 hours up to 6 times daily. Acyclovir topical is usually used for 7 days. Follow your doctor’s instructions.

Use this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated.

Lesions caused by herpes viruses should be kept as clean and dry as possible. Wearing loose clothing may help to prevent irritation of the lesions.

Store acyclovir topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

There may be other drugs that can affect acyclovir topical. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes. If this does happen, rinse with water.

Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with acyclovir. 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.

Acyclovir will not prevent the spread of genital herpes. Avoid sexual intercourse or use a latex condom to prevent spreading the virus to others.

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of acyclovir topical applied to the skin is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.

Use the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and use the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

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.

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to acyclovir or polyethylene glycol (such as Colyte, GlycoLax, CoLytely, MiraLax).

FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Herpes virus can be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. If you have genital herpes, it is very important to prevent herpes lesions during your pregnancy so that you do not have a genital lesion when your baby is born.

It is not known whether acyclovir topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Your pharmacist has information about acyclovir topical written for health professionals that you may read.

Acyclovir topical is available with a prescription under the brand name Zovirax in a cream or ointment for topical use. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication especially if it is new to you.