Zovirax® Ointment 5% for Cold Sores and Genital Herpes

What Zovirax® Is and How It Works

Zovirax Oint 5% is the brand form of acyclovir 5% topical ointment. It treats external skin lesions from herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2. These include cold sores on the lips and selected external genital lesions. You can order Zovirax Oint 5% without insurance and access Canadian pricing from our pharmacy.

YouDrugstore is a licensed Canadian pharmacy headquartered in Manitoba, and all prescriptions are reviewed by licensed pharmacists before dispensing. We work with licensed, vetted partner pharmacies internationally to supply authentic brand medicines, a broad selection, and competitive pricing.

Acyclovir is an antiviral that targets viral DNA replication. It is activated inside infected cells and slows virus growth. This helps shorten symptom time and reduce pain and tingling. It does not cure herpes or stop future outbreaks. It is not for use inside the mouth, nose, vagina, rectum, or the eyes.

Zovirax Oint 5% is for topical use on intact external skin only. It can be used at the first sign of an outbreak or as directed by your prescriber. Early use tends to provide the most benefit.

Dosage and Usage

• Start at the first sign of prodrome (tingle, itch) or when lesions appear, as prescribed.
• Typical dosing for the ointment is 6 times daily (about every 3 hours) for 7 days, or as directed by your prescriber.
• Wash hands before and after each application.
• Clean and dry the affected area gently before applying a thin film.
• Use a clean cotton swab or fingertips to apply a small amount; do not rub hard.
• Avoid contact with eyes, inside the mouth or nose, and all mucous membranes. Do not use intraocularly.
• Do not cover with airtight or occlusive dressings unless told by your prescriber.
• Allow the ointment to absorb before applying cosmetics or lip products.
• If you miss a dose, apply when remembered. If it is near the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up.
• Stop and contact a clinician if you develop a severe rash, swelling, or breathing trouble.

• Store at 20–25°C (68–77°F). Short excursions 15–30°C (59–86°F) are acceptable.
• Do not freeze. Keep the cap tightly closed. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Travel: keep in your carry-on, away from heat and direct sun. Do not leave in a hot car.
• Keep the original box and pharmacy label with the tube for security checks.
• Do not share your tube with others.

Benefits and Savings

Zovirax Oint 5% can lessen pain and speed healing when started early. The ointment base stays on the skin, which may help when lesions are dry or crusted. Application is localized and has minimal systemic absorption.

Ordering Zovirax Oint 5% online from Canada offers strong value. Many patients see 60–80% savings compared with typical US prices, especially for recurrent outbreaks. Savings can be helpful if you are paying without insurance. You can also lower your per-tube cost by purchasing multiple tubes when you have a valid prescription.

For current promotions, see our Zovirax Oint 5% coupon.

We ship to the US with prompt, express service. Online ordering is simple, and customer-service chat is available during posted office hours.

Side Effects and Safety

• Temporary burning or stinging at the application site
• Itching, dryness, flaking, or tightness of the skin
• Mild redness or irritation
• Rash or contact dermatitis
• Rare swelling at the site

Serious allergic reactions are uncommon. Stop using the ointment and seek medical help if you develop hives, facial swelling, or trouble breathing. Do not use in the eyes or inside the mouth or nose. Accidental eye contact may cause irritation; rinse with water and seek advice. Systemic absorption is low, so drug interactions are unlikely. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, discuss use with your prescriber.

Onset Time

Relief of tingling or burning may start within 1–2 days of proper use. Lesions often crust and heal over 4–7 days. Early initiation at the first sign of prodrome tends to provide the best response. If there is no improvement after a full course or symptoms worsen, contact your healthcare provider.

Compare With Alternatives

Oral valacyclovir offers systemic therapy with convenient dosing. For frequent or severe outbreaks, a clinician may suggest oral treatment during episodes or for suppression. You can review branded options like Valtrex®, or discuss generic valacyclovir tablets with your prescriber.

Another topical option is the 5% cream formulation. The cream is often used for cold sores and is typically applied 5 times daily for 4 days. If you prefer a lighter feel under makeup, ask your prescriber whether the cream is suitable. You can compare it to Zovirax® Cr 5 on our site.

Nonprescription agents such as docosanol may offer modest benefit for cold sores. Their dosing and evidence differ from acyclovir. People with frequent or severe outbreaks often benefit from a personalized plan with a clinician.

Combination Therapy

• Oral antivirals (valacyclovir or acyclovir tablets) during episodes or for suppression, as prescribed.
• Simple analgesics (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) for pain relief if appropriate.
• Moisturizing lip balms or emollients after the ointment has absorbed.
• Sun protection on healed areas to reduce triggers; avoid application over fresh ointment.
• Avoid topical steroids on active herpes lesions unless directed by a clinician.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

Zovirax Oint 5% is intended for adults and adolescents when a prescriber recommends topical therapy for external lesions. It is not for eye infections, inside the mouth, or intravaginal use. People with very frequent or severe outbreaks may need an oral antiviral plan instead of or in addition to topical treatment.

Those with known allergy to acyclovir or valacyclovir should avoid this medicine. If you are immunocompromised or have widespread lesions, seek medical guidance promptly. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss risks and benefits with your prescriber before use.

To lower your Zovirax Oint 5% cost, consider ordering multiple tubes when appropriate. Bulk promotions can reduce the per-tube price, and multi-month supplies may help you avoid last-minute purchases. You can set simple reorder reminders in your account so you have medicine on hand before travel or seasonal triggers. Patients comparing the Zovirax Oint 5% cash price may find better value with Canadian pharmacy pricing, even when buying without insurance.

Authoritative Sources

Review official labeling and regulatory information here:

Drugs@FDA: Acyclovir Ointment Search

Health Canada Drug Product Database

DailyMed: Acyclovir Ointment 5% Labeling

Order Zovirax® from Youdrugstore.com: add to cart, upload your prescription, and we ship with prompt, express shipping.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from your healthcare professional. Always follow your prescriber’s directions and your dispensed label.