Zovirax® Ointment for Herpes Simplex

This topical antiviral helps treat herpes simplex lesions on the skin. It is used on external areas, including initial genital herpes. Here you will find key facts on safe use, storage, and how to place your request at YouDrugstore.

What Zovirax Is and How It Works

Zovirax® contains acyclovir, an antiviral for skin infections caused by herpes simplex viruses. YouDrugstore is a licensed Canadian pharmacy in Manitoba. Pharmacists review prescriptions before dispensing. We provide US shipping from Canada, giving you access to a regulated source with transparent information. If you pay without insurance, this page outlines practical steps to compare options and proceed safely.

The active ingredient blocks viral DNA replication after viral enzymes activate it inside infected cells. This selective action helps limit viral spread at the lesion site. As lesions evolve, consistent use may support healing and symptom relief. This medicine is not a cure and does not prevent future outbreaks or transmission.

Use it only on external skin or external genital areas affected by HSV. Do not use it in the eyes, inside the mouth, or inside the vagina. Avoid covering treated areas with airtight dressings unless a prescriber advises otherwise.

When discussing the class, acyclovir ointment 5% is formulated for topical use and differs from oral antivirals. Oral agents may be chosen for widespread or frequent recurrences. Your prescriber will decide which approach fits your situation best. For a broader overview of the condition, visit our Herpes Simplex page, and see other treatments under Antivirals.

Who It’s For

This treatment is used for herpes simplex skin infections, including initial genital herpes, as directed by a prescriber. It may also be used for limited, non–life-threatening mucocutaneous HSV infections in certain immunocompromised patients. A clinician may recommend oral therapy for extensive disease or frequent recurrences.

Do not use if you are allergic to acyclovir or valacyclovir. Avoid use in the eye or inside the mouth. Discuss use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding with your healthcare professional. Tell your prescriber about kidney problems or other conditions that might affect medicine choices.

Dosage and Usage

Start treatment as soon as possible at the first tingling, redness, or lesion. Apply a thin layer to the affected skin, covering the lesion and a small margin of healthy skin. Typical schedules involve multiple daily applications at evenly spaced intervals. Follow your prescriber’s directions and the official label.

Wash hands before and after applying. Use a finger cot or disposable gloves if advised to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to other sites. Do not share your tube with others. Avoid unnecessary contact with the eyes, and do not use inside the mouth or vagina.

Use only the amount needed to cover the affected area. Do not layer cosmetic products directly over freshly treated lesions. Allow the area to dry before putting clothing over it. If irritation worsens or lesions spread rapidly, seek clinical guidance.

Some tubes are available in common sizes; many patients are familiar with acyclovir ointment 15g. Your prescriber will determine duration and frequency suited to your case.

Strengths and Forms

This topical antiviral is supplied as an ointment for external skin use. The commonly available strength is 5%, and packaging may vary by manufacturer and market.

• Zovirax ointment 15g tube for topical application

A cream formulation with the same active ingredient exists for different uses, such as cold sores. The ointment base differs from the cream and may affect how it feels on the skin. Availability can vary; check the product page for current options.

Missed Dose and Timing

If you miss an application, apply it when you remember and then continue on your usual schedule. Keep applications spaced as directed rather than applying two doses at once. Consistency from the early signs of an outbreak is important for best results under labeled guidance.

Storage and Travel Basics

Store the tube at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture, and keep the cap tightly closed. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Discard the tube by expiry or if it becomes contaminated.

For travel, carry the ointment in original packaging with your prescription details. Pack it in your hand luggage to avoid extreme temperatures. Use a resealable pouch to prevent leaks. If traveling across borders, keep a copy of your prescription and your prescriber’s directions handy. Do not leave the tube in a hot car or near direct sunlight.

Benefits

Topical therapy allows focused treatment at the lesion site. Early and consistent use can support symptom improvement during an outbreak. The local route limits overall systemic exposure compared with oral therapy. Many patients find the thin film easy to apply and integrate into daily routines while lesions heal.

Side Effects and Safety

• Temporary burning or stinging at the application site
• Mild dryness, flaking, or itching
• Redness or irritation near the lesion
• Rare contact dermatitis

Severe allergic reactions are uncommon but possible. Stop use and seek medical help if you experience hives, swelling, or breathing difficulty. Avoid using on severely broken skin unless directed. Some ointment bases may weaken latex products like condoms or diaphragms; check label instructions and choose suitable protection. If irritation persists or worsens, contact your healthcare professional.

Drug Interactions and Cautions

Topical exposure leads to minimal systemic absorption. Interactions are unlikely, but caution is appropriate in people with significant renal impairment or those using multiple nephrotoxic medicines. Avoid applying other topical agents on the same spot unless your prescriber agrees. Tell your clinician about all medicines you use, including oral antivirals, creams, or over-the-counter products. For broader safety context, see Liver And Kidney Disease.

If you are immunocompromised, your clinician may favor oral therapy or combined approaches. This medicine is not for the eyes; use only ophthalmic products made for eye infections. For information about antivirals used in other conditions, explore this overview: Delstrigo Medication.

As a micro safety cue, prescriptions are required and verified before dispensing.

What to Expect Over Time

Used early in an outbreak, the treatment may reduce lesion spread and support healing. Some mild tingling or transient burning can occur after application. Lesions typically crust and resolve as the skin repairs. This therapy does not eradicate the virus or prevent recurrences. Work with your prescriber on strategies to recognize early symptoms and begin treatment promptly for future episodes.

Compare With Alternatives

Oral antivirals are commonly used for genital herpes and frequent recurrences. Valacyclovir offers systemic treatment guided by your prescriber. Another branded option is Valtrex, which contains valacyclovir. Cream formulations of acyclovir are often used for cold sores on the lips, while ointment is typically chosen for specific skin indications. Your clinician will match the product and route to your needs.

Pricing and Access

We highlight Zovirax ointment Canadian pricing clearly so you can compare options before you proceed. This product ships from Canada to US with straightforward checkout. Review current pricing on the product page, then add your prescription details at checkout. If you pay cash, you can view typical savings compared with many local cash-pay rates. For broader condition options, see our Herpes Simplex page.

Availability and Substitutions

Stock can vary by tube size and manufacturer. If your item is unavailable, your prescriber may recommend a comparable alternative such as an oral antiviral. For self-funded purchases, people sometimes search for acyclovir ointment self pay to compare choices. Your clinician’s guidance should lead the selection if a substitution is needed.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

This topical therapy may suit adults with localized lesions who can apply it consistently. Those with severe, frequent, or extensive outbreaks may require oral therapy. People with known allergies to acyclovir or valacyclovir should avoid it. Discuss pregnancy and lactation questions with your prescriber.

To manage costs, consider multi-month planning if you experience periodic outbreaks and your prescriber agrees. Set refill reminders so you have a tube available at the first sign of symptoms. Compare brand and generic acyclovir options to see which meets your budget and directions. Some shoppers research the Zovirax ointment cash price alongside generic pricing to make an informed choice.

Questions to Ask Your Clinician

• Is topical therapy right for my current outbreak or should I use oral treatment?
• How soon should I start applications after early symptoms appear?
• Can this ointment be used with condoms, and do I need specific non-latex options?
• What signs mean I should stop and seek medical advice?
• How does this compare with valacyclovir or other oral antivirals for my situation?
• What should I do if lesions spread beyond the first area?

Authoritative Sources

• DailyMed Acyclovir Ointment
• Manufacturer Contact (Canada)
• Health Canada Drug Product Database

Ready to proceed? Order from YouDrugstore with prompt, express shipping and temperature-controlled handling when required, ensuring US delivery from Canada. This information is for educational purposes and does not replace advice from your healthcare professional.