Zovirax Cold Sore Cream is a topical antiviral medicine containing aciclovir 5% w/w, used to treat cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus, supplied in a 2g pump for adults and children aged 16 and over by Ways Pharmacy (UK).
Key facts
| Active ingredient | Aciclovir 5% w/w (阿昔洛韦) |
|---|---|
| Type | Topical antiviral cream for cold sores (a medicine) |
| Format | Cream, 2g pump |
| For | Cold sores (herpes simplex) on the lips and around the mouth |
| Best applied | At the first tingling stage, before the cold sore fully develops |
| Age | Adults and children aged 16 and over |
| Sold by | Ways Pharmacy, UK (GPhC-registered) |
Who it is for
- Adults and over-16s who feel the tingle, itch or burning that signals a cold sore starting
- People who get recurrent cold sores on the lips and around the mouth and want to treat them early
- People who prefer a pump format for clean, measured application
Not suitable for: children under 16, anyone allergic to aciclovir or any ingredient, and not for use in the eyes, mouth or nose. Speak to a pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a weakened immune system. See your GP if cold sores are frequent, severe or do not heal.
How to use
- Wash your hands before and after applying the cream.
- Apply the cream as early as possible, ideally at the first tingle, to completely cover the affected area.
- Use five times daily at approximately 4-hour intervals for up to 4 days.
- If the cold sore has not healed, you may continue for up to 10 days in total.
- If it has not healed after 10 days, speak to your pharmacist or GP.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start using Zovirax Cold Sore Cream?
Start as soon as you feel the first signs of a cold sore, such as tingling, itching or burning, before the blister appears. Early treatment at the tingle stage gives the cream the best chance to work.
How often do I apply Zovirax cream?
Apply it five times a day at roughly 4-hour intervals for up to 4 days. If the cold sore has not healed, you can continue for up to 10 days in total; if it still has not healed, speak to your pharmacist or GP.
Does Zovirax cure the cold sore virus?
No. Aciclovir treats individual cold sore outbreaks but does not cure or remove the herpes simplex virus from the body, so cold sores can return. If outbreaks are frequent or you have a weakened immune system, see your GP.
Can children use Zovirax Cold Sore Cream?
This pack is for adults and children aged 16 and over. You must be 16 or over to purchase this medicine.
Can I use Zovirax cream if I am pregnant?
Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a weakened immune system, or are taking other medicines. They can confirm whether it is suitable for you.
Safety and storage
- For external use on the skin only. Do not use in the eyes, mouth or nose.
- Do not use if you are allergic to aciclovir or any ingredient, or if the carton ends are open or broken.
- See your GP if cold sores are frequent, very severe, or you are immunosuppressed.
- Store below 25 degrees C; do not refrigerate. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
References
- NHS — Cold sores
- Zovirax Cold Sore Cream PIL via emc
- Suspected side effect? Report via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme
This is a medicine for the treatment of cold sores. Always read the label and the enclosed leaflet before use. It does not cure the herpes simplex virus. If cold sores are frequent, severe or do not heal, consult your pharmacist or GP.
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