Zovirax® Ointment 5% for Herpes Simplex Skin Infections

Zovirax® Ointment 5% is a prescription antiviral applied to the skin for certain herpes simplex infections. CanadianInsulin connects US patients to licensed Canadian pharmacies with US delivery from Canada and Canadian pricing. You can review cash-pay options with or without insurance before ordering.

Every CanadianInsulin order is prescription-checked with your clinic and dispensed by a licensed Canadian pharmacy.

What Zovirax® Is and How It Works

Zovirax® Ointment 5% contains acyclovir, an antiviral in the nucleoside analog class. After application, acyclovir is activated mainly inside herpes simplex virus (HSV) infected cells. It then blocks viral DNA replication by inhibiting viral DNA polymerase and causing chain termination. This local action helps slow the growth of HSV on the skin.

The ointment is for external skin use only. It is not for the eyes, inside the mouth, or inside the vagina. Do not use it on deep or extensive wounds unless your clinician directs it.

Who Zovirax Is For

This medicine is used for certain HSV skin infections when your prescriber recommends a topical option. It is often used for initial genital herpes episodes and for limited, non–life-threatening mucocutaneous HSV lesions in immunocompromised patients, according to labeling. It is most helpful when started early in an outbreak.

People who should avoid it include those with known hypersensitivity to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any component of the ointment. It is not for ophthalmic use. Do not apply to the inside of the mouth or genitals beyond the lesion surface, and do not use intravaginally. Ask your clinician about the best option if lesions are severe, widespread, or involve mucous membranes.

Dosage and Usage

Follow your prescriber’s instructions and the official patient leaflet. Typical labeled directions are:

• Apply a thin layer to affected skin six times daily, about every three hours, for seven days.
• Start treatment as soon as possible at the first signs of tingling, burning, redness, or blisters.
• Wash hands before and after use. A finger cot or disposable glove can reduce the chance of spreading the virus to other areas.
• Use enough to cover the lesion and the immediate surrounding skin.
• Avoid occlusive dressings unless your clinician advises.

Your clinician may suggest oral antivirals instead of, or in addition to, topical treatment in some situations, especially for frequent recurrences or more severe disease.

Strengths and Forms

Commonly available presentation:

• Acyclovir 5% ointment in a 15 g tube (brand: Zovirax Ointment 5%).

Availability can vary by pharmacy and by country. Note that acyclovir cream 5% is a different preparation with different labeled uses. This page is for the 5% ointment, not the ophthalmic product.

Missed Dose and Timing

If you miss an application, apply it when you remember, then continue with the next dose as scheduled. Do not apply extra ointment to make up for a missed application.

Storage and Travel Basics

• Store at room temperature per label, ideally 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Keep the cap tightly closed. Protect from excessive heat and do not freeze.
• During travel, keep the tube in your carry-on and avoid extreme temperatures. Use a small resealable bag to prevent leaks.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Benefits

• Targets HSV replication in infected skin cells where applied.
• May reduce symptom intensity and shorten healing time when used early.
• Local therapy helps limit systemic exposure.
• Easy to carry and apply to affected skin areas.

Zovirax ointment is not a cure for herpes. HSV can stay in the body and may reactivate later.

Side Effects and Safety

• Common: mild stinging, burning, itching, dryness, or pain where applied.
• Less common: redness, flaking, or a mild rash.
• Rare: allergic contact dermatitis or hypersensitivity. Stop use and seek care if severe irritation, widespread rash, swelling, or trouble breathing occurs.

Avoid contact with the eyes. If accidental eye exposure occurs, rinse with water and seek medical advice. If you have atopic dermatitis or very sensitive skin, discuss a plan with your clinician before starting.

Drug Interactions and Cautions

Systemic absorption after topical use is low, so drug interactions are unlikely. Avoid applying other harsh or drying agents to the same skin area unless your clinician approves. Do not use this ointment inside the eye, mouth, or vagina. During active lesions, avoid skin-to-skin contact that could spread HSV. Using latex condoms can help reduce transmission risk, but no method is perfect, and the ointment does not prevent spread.

Tell your clinician if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Acyclovir topical use results in minimal systemic exposure, but clinical guidance should direct therapy. Share your history of kidney disease, immune compromise, or frequent recurrences so your clinician can recommend the best regimen.

What to Expect Over Time

When started early and used as directed, lesions typically move through their normal stages and heal. Many people notice less discomfort within several days. Recurrences can still happen. If outbreaks are frequent or severe, your clinician may consider an oral antiviral plan for episodic treatment or suppression.

Compare With Alternatives

Oral antivirals are often used for recurrent or more severe episodes. Options your clinician may consider include Acyclovir tablets and Famciclovir. Some patients do well with topical therapy alone for select lesions, while others benefit from an oral regimen. Your clinician will tailor treatment to the type and timing of outbreaks.

Pricing and Access

Check the current Zovirax Ointment 5% price on this page to see Canadian pricing with US delivery from Canada. Many patients compare the cost of brand versus generic acyclovir ointment and choose the option that fits their budget. You can buy Zovirax Ointment 5% online and complete checkout easily. Our encrypted checkout helps keep your information secure. We offer prompt, express shipping to US addresses after prescription verification.

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Availability and Substitutions

If Zovirax Ointment 5% is unavailable, your prescriber may recommend a clinically appropriate alternative. You can also review related treatments in our Herpes Virus Infection category and discuss options with your clinician.

Patient Suitability and Cost Saving Tips

This ointment may suit patients with a first episode of genital herpes or select localized HSV lesions, including some immunocompromised patients when a clinician prefers topical therapy. It may not be ideal for extensive disease, mucosal lesions, or ocular herpes. People with frequent recurrences often consider oral antivirals.

• Ask your clinician if a multi-tube supply is appropriate to cover a full course for future episodes.
• Set refill reminders so you have ointment on hand at the first sign of an outbreak.
• Combine items in one order when possible to reduce per-order costs.
• Store the tube properly and keep a small travel kit for trips.

If you live with diabetes or other conditions that affect skin health, learn general skin care basics and how to identify infections. Helpful reads include Diabetes Skin Problems, Cellulitis And Diabetes, and Diabetic Blisters. Use these as general education and follow your clinician’s guidance for HSV management.

Questions to Ask Your Clinician

• Is topical acyclovir ointment right for my current outbreak, or should I use an oral antiviral?
• When should I start treatment, and for how many days should I continue?
• How can I reduce the chance of spreading HSV to partners or other body sites?
• What signs mean I should switch to or add an oral antiviral?
• Is this ointment safe with my other prescription or over-the-counter skin products?
• What should I do if I develop irritation or a rash at the application site?
• Are there special considerations if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
• How should I plan for future episodes and refills?

Authoritative Sources

• FDA DailyMed: Acyclovir Ointment 5%
• Health Canada Drug Product Database
• GSK: Zovirax Brand Information

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