Zovirax Tablet 200mg

About Zovirax Tablet 200mg

Zovirax Tablet 200mg Uses

• Treatment of herpes zoster (shingles) in adults with a healthy immune system
• Treatment of first episode and recurrent genital herpes infections
• Long term suppressive therapy to reduce recurrent genital herpes outbreaks
• Treatment of chickenpox (varicella) in adults and adolescents
• Oral therapy for cold sores when a topical cream alone is not enough

Zovirax Tablet 200mg Benefits

• Reduces the duration and severity of shingles pain and rash
• Speeds healing of genital herpes lesions and reduces viral shedding
• Lowers the risk of transmitting genital herpes to a partner when used for suppression
• Shortens the course of chickenpox and limits new lesion formation
• Long safety record when kidney function is normal and hydration is maintained

What Experts Say

Physicians reserve oral Acyclovir 200mg for immunocompetent patients who can start therapy within 72 hours of symptom onset, since effectiveness against herpes zoster and genital herpes depends heavily on how early treatment begins.

The mechanism explains the frequent dosing. Acyclovir becomes active once a viral enzyme, thymidine kinase, converts it inside infected cells, after which it blocks viral DNA polymerase and halts replication. Because the drug clears the body quickly, doctors prescribe it five times a day for shingles and chickenpox, and twice daily for long term suppressive therapy in patients with frequent genital herpes recurrences.

Doctors monitor kidney function and hydration closely during therapy, since the drug is eliminated through the kidneys and can crystallize in renal tubules when fluid intake is inadequate. Elderly patients and those with kidney disease usually receive a reduced dose based on creatinine clearance, alongside advice for generous water intake to protect renal function.

Drug Class

• Antiviral, Synthetic Purine Nucleoside Analogue

Zovirax Tablet 200mg formula

• Acyclovir

Available forms

• Tablet

How to use Zovirax Tablet 200mg?

• Take exactly as prescribed, usually 5 times a day for herpes zoster or chickenpox
• Space doses roughly 4 hours apart while awake to keep drug levels steady
• For genital herpes suppression, your doctor may prescribe a lower twice daily dose instead
• Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water
• Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to support kidney clearance
• Start treatment as soon as symptoms appear, ideally within 24 to 72 hours
• Complete the full course even if symptoms improve early

Drug Interactions

• Probenecid: Slows Acyclovir elimination and can raise blood levels of the drug
• Nephrotoxic Drugs: Combining with other kidney affecting medicines, such as certain antibiotics or NSAIDs, raises the risk of kidney injury
• Mycophenolate Mofetil: Increases levels of both drugs when used together in transplant patients
• Theophylline: Acyclovir may raise theophylline levels, requiring closer monitoring
• Zidovudine: Combined use may increase drowsiness and lethargy

Risks and warnings

• Kidney Function: Oral Acyclovir is cleared through the kidneys and can cause reversible kidney impairment, especially with dehydration or high doses
• Hydration: Maintain adequate fluid intake throughout treatment to reduce the risk of crystal formation in the kidneys
• Elderly Patients: Older adults often need a lower dose because kidney function naturally declines with age
• Pregnancy: Use only if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor, since long term fetal safety data remain limited
• Neurological Effects: High doses or reduced kidney clearance can rarely cause confusion, agitation, or tremors, particularly in older patients
• Immunocompromised Patients: May need a higher dose or IV therapy under close medical supervision

Zovirax Tablet 200mg Side Effects

• Nausea and stomach upset
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Skin rash
• Vomiting
• Reduced kidney function with inadequate hydration

Storage Conditions

• Store at room temperature between 15°C and 25°C
• Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep the strip in its original packaging until use
• Store out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack