General Information On Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment
Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment treats eye/corneal infections that are cuased due to herpes simplex viruses. The generic name for this drug is acyclovir, and it belongs to a class of drugs known as antiviral medicines.
Acyclovir is the active ingredient in Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment, and it works by preventing the herpes simplex virus from multiplying and infecting the eye further. Acyclovir becomes more active when it comes in contact with cells affected by herpes simplex and blocks the action of the viral enzyme known as DNA polymerase. The ointment is administered in the form of a 1cm thin ribbon along the lower lid of the eye. If you are suffering from eye irritation due to such an infection, you can buy Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment online after getting a doctor’s prescription.
Side effects of Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment
Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment has the potential to cause some side effects. These may affect different patients differently. However, it is not necessary that all patients using this medicine would experience side effects. In fact, several patients do not experience any side effects at all.
The most common and minor side effects of Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment are:
- Stinging sensation in the eye
- Eye irritation, conjunctivitis, and inflammation of the eye lining
- mild headache
- vomiting and nausea
Although the above mentioned side effects are not serious, you must seek your doctor’s help if they worsen or persist.
The uncommon but serious side effects of Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment are:
- Inflammation in the eyelids
- menstrual irregularities
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Sore throat or edema
- Muscle cramps, chest pain, mild fever, hallucinations, fatigue, and skin rashes
If you experience any of these side effects, you must immediately report the problem to your doctor, after which he/she may suggest another drug to alleviate the condition.
Dosage of Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment
Doctors determine the Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment dosage depending on the severity of the infection. The standard prescribed dose is about 1.25cm to 2.5cm ribbon of the ointment applied inside the lower eyelid. Your doctor may ask you to apply the ointment about 5 times a day, with a gap of 4 hours between each application. The treatment is to be continued for 14 days and for 3 days after the infection is healed completely.
If you buy Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment for treating your eye infection, make sure that you use it as per the instructions provided by your doctor. Also make sure that you remove your contact lenses while using the ointment.
Do not buy Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. In some patients, the ointment may cause dizziness, so you must not drive or do any other activity that calls for alertness until the effect wears off completely. Although it has not been proved that Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment is harmful for pregnant women, it is advisable that you consult your doctor and discuss the potential risks before using the ointment if you are expecting a child.
Interactions
Although there are no significant drug interactions with Zovirax Ophthalmic Ointment, it is advisable to inform your doctor if you are using any other eye drops. If so, make sure that you maintain a gap of at least 10 minutes between each dose of these eye medications.
