Zovirax® Ointment for Cold Sores and Genital Herpes

Zovirax® is a prescription antiviral ointment used on herpes simplex lesions of the skin and lips. This page explains clinical use, safety basics, and how to order with US shipping from Canada. It also notes options to manage out-of-pocket costs without insurance.

What Zovirax Is and How It Works

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This medicine contains acyclovir, an antiviral that inhibits viral DNA replication. It targets herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 on the skin. Early use at the first signs of tingling or redness may help limit lesion spread.

Zovirax ointment 5 percent is for topical use on affected areas only. It is not for use in the eyes, inside the mouth, or inside the vagina. Do not ingest it.

Who It’s For

This treatment is used for cold sores on the lips and face, and for external genital herpes lesions. It may be used for initial episodes or recurrences when a prescriber recommends topical therapy. Systemic therapy may be preferred for severe or widespread disease.

Avoid use if there is a known allergy to acyclovir or valacyclovir. Ask a clinician before use in pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Do not use on the eyes or inside the mouth, and do not apply to severely broken skin without medical advice. Learn more about the conditions it treats in our overviews of Genital Herpes and Herpes Simplex.

Dosage and Usage

Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin covering the lesion and about a half-inch of surrounding skin. Standard labeling recommends frequent applications each day for up to seven days. Begin at the earliest sign of symptoms when possible.

Wash hands before and after application. A cotton swab or gloved finger can reduce contact spread. Avoid occlusive dressings that may trap moisture unless directed by a clinician. Do not share tubes between people.

Do not apply inside the eyes or mouth. If accidental eye contact occurs, rinse with water and seek advice. Keep the cap tightly closed between uses to protect the product.

Strengths and Forms

This antiviral is supplied as a topical ointment. Commonly available packaging includes Acyclovir ointment 5% 15g. Availability may vary by pharmacy and region.

Other presentations, such as oral tablets of the same active ingredient or related antivirals, may be prescribed for more extensive or severe disease. Your prescriber will determine which form is appropriate for the episode being treated.

Missed Dose and Timing

If an application is missed, apply when remembered. If it is nearly time for the next application, resume the regular schedule. Do not apply extra amounts to make up for a missed application.

Consistent intervals during waking hours help maintain local antiviral activity on the skin. Stop after the prescribed duration unless your clinician advises otherwise.

Storage and Travel Basics

Store the tube at room temperature and keep the cap sealed when not in use. Protect from excessive heat and keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not freeze.

When traveling, keep the original labeled tube with your prescription details in your carry-on. Pack a small sealable bag to separate the tube from other items. For international travel, carry a copy of your prescription or a pharmacy receipt in case of screening questions.

Benefits

Topical antiviral therapy acts at the lesion site. It may help reduce symptom severity and support healing when started early. Local treatment avoids systemic exposure for limited, mild outbreaks on the skin.

The ointment spreads easily over clustered blisters and adheres to the lesion surface. This can make frequent, targeted use feasible during an outbreak.

Side Effects and Safety

• Local burning or stinging: usually mild and short-lived
• Itching or dryness: may occur at the application site
• Redness or flaking: local irritation can appear during use
• Skin sensitivity: rarely, contact dermatitis may develop

Serious reactions are uncommon but can include allergic responses such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Stop use and seek urgent care if signs of severe allergy occur. Avoid eye exposure; if eye irritation or visual changes occur after accidental contact, seek evaluation. Keep in mind that herpes is contagious; avoid direct contact with lesions during active outbreaks.

Drug Interactions and Cautions

Systemic interactions are unlikely with topical use because absorption is minimal. However, using multiple topical products on the same area can increase irritation. Discuss other creams, ointments, or medicated cosmetics being used on the same skin.

Inform your clinician about kidney problems, immune conditions, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Do not use on mucous membranes or deep wounds. If symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear, seek medical advice.

What to Expect Over Time

Symptoms often evolve over several days during an outbreak. Early and consistent use may help limit local spread and improve comfort. The virus stays in the body and can reactivate; this treatment does not eradicate the virus.

On this Zovirax ointment online pharmacy page, expectations for use and access are outlined in plain language. Keep a treatment plan on hand and note triggers that tend to precede outbreaks, such as sun exposure or stress. A simple routine and reminder can support consistent application during waking hours.

Compare With Alternatives

Some outbreaks need systemic treatment. Oral antivirals such as Acyclovir and Famciclovir may be prescribed when broader coverage is needed. Discuss the most appropriate form for each episode with your prescriber.

Pricing and Access

Canadian pricing may offer savings versus typical local cash pay. Check current options and ask about Acyclovir ointment cash price to see how pharmacy pricing compares. If eligible, look for a Zovirax ointment coupon to reduce out-of-pocket expense.

Order securely with a valid prescription and see transparent checkout before payment. For occasional offers, visit our Promotions page. We use encrypted checkout for payment security.

Availability and Substitutions

Stock can vary by dispensing pharmacy. If unavailable, a prescriber may recommend a therapeutically suitable alternative, including a generic topical antiviral or an oral formulation. Zovirax ointment US delivery information appears at checkout after address confirmation.

If a substitution is suggested, your prescriber will consider lesion location, severity, and your medical history. Do not switch products without approval from your clinician.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

Good candidates generally have limited, external lesions and prefer localized treatment. Those with extensive disease, frequent severe recurrences, ocular involvement, or significant immunosuppression may require systemic therapy per clinician judgment.

To save on costs, consider multi-tube fills when appropriate, especially before travel seasons or anticipated triggers. Set refill reminders in your account so you have the medication on hand when early symptoms occur. Ask about any Zovirax ointment discount that may apply under current promotions.

Questions to Ask Your Clinician

• Best start time: when to begin treatment for my outbreaks
• Proper amount: how much to apply per use
• Safety limits: where not to apply and why
• Concurrent products: which creams or cosmetics to avoid
• Episode plan: when to consider oral antivirals
• Prevention tips: ways to reduce recurrences or triggers
• Travel prep: documents or packing guidance for trips

Authoritative Sources

For full prescribing information, see the FDA listing on FDA DailyMed, which provides official label details for acyclovir ointment.

The manufacturer maintains product information and safety communications on the GSK website; consult your region’s site for availability and labeling.

Health Canada’s Drug Product Database includes Canadian labeling and status; review the acyclovir entry via Health Canada DPD for regulatory information.

Ready to proceed? You can place an order online and select delivery preferences with prompt, express, temperature-controlled handling when required. Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.