Drug Uses
Zovirax is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Zovirax will not cure herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection. Zovirax is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses. Illnesses caused by herpes viruses include genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chicken pox.

How To Use
Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Treatment with Zovirax should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters). Take each dose with a full glass of water. Drink plenty of water while you are taking Zovirax to keep your kidneys working properly. Zovirax can be taken with or without food. Taking Zovirax with food may decrease stomach upset. Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one. Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Zovirax will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu. 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.

Possible Side Effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects: pain in your lower back; urinating less than usual or not at all; easy bruising or bleeding; or unusual weakness. Less serious side effects may include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach pain; headache, feeling light-headed; or swelling in your hands or feet.

Precautions
Take 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 Zovirax should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters). Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with Zovirax. 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 take this medicine if you are allergic to Zovirax or valacyclovir (Valtrex). Before taking Zovirax, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have kidney disease. You may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

Missed Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Storage
Store Zovirax at room temperature away from moisture and heat.