Can acyclovir ointment be used for shingles?
Acyclovir is used to treat infections caused by certain types of viruses. It treats cold sores around the mouth (caused by herpes simplex), shingles (caused by herpes zoster), and chickenpox. This medication is also used to treat outbreaks of genital herpes.
How do you use acyclovir cream for shingles?
The affected area should be clean and dry before applying ZOVIRAX Cream. Apply ZOVIRAX Cream to the affected area 5 times each day for 4 days, including the outer edge. You should not apply other skin products to the affected area during treatment with ZOVIRAX Cream.
How long does acyclovir take to work for shingles?
Response and effectiveness. May take up to two hours to reach peak plasma concentrations after oral acyclovir administration. May take up to three days for symptom reduction; however, acyclovir should be taken until the course prescribed is completed. Acyclovir works best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.
What is acyclovir 5% ointment used for?
ACYCLOVIR (ay SYE kloe veer) is an antiviral medicine. It is used to treat infections caused by certain kinds of viruses. Examples of these infections include cold sores and herpes. This medicine will not cure herpes.
Where do you apply acyclovir cream?
Acyclovir cream and ointment are for use only on the skin. Do not let acyclovir cream or ointment get into your eyes, or inside your mouth or nose, and do not swallow the medication. Acyclovir cream should only be applied to skin where a cold sore has formed or seems likely to form.
How often should I apply acyclovir cream?
Acyclovir topical cream is usually applied 5 times daily for 4 days. Acyclovir topical ointment is usually applied 6 times daily for 7 days. Follow your doctor’s dosing instructions very carefully. Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve.
What is the difference between acyclovir cream and acyclovir ointment?
Acyclovir topical (for the skin) is an antiviral medicine that is used to treat skin symptoms caused by the herpes virus. Acyclovir topical cream is used to treat cold sores on the lips and face. Acyclovir topical ointment is used to treat genital herpes lesions.
How effective is acyclovir ointment?
In patients with recurrent episodes who completed the study topical acyclovir significantly reduced the median duration of all symptoms (3 vs. 6 days, P less than 0.001), the time to healing of all lesions (4 vs. 6 days, P less than 0.01), and the formation of new lesions (5 vs.
What is the difference between acyclovir cream and ointment?
Acyclovir topical cream is used to treat cold sores on the lips and face. Acyclovir topical ointment is used to treat genital herpes lesions. There is no cure for herpes and acyclovir will not prevent you from developing symptoms in the future.