Acyclovir
Also sold as Acyclovir, acyclovir, ACYCLOVIR, Zovirax
Medicine summary · from official FDA labels · Oct 19, 2026
What it’s used for
Acyclovir Cream is a herpes simplex virus (HSV) deoxynucleoside analogue DNA polymerase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores) in immunocompetent adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older. Acyclovir Cream is a herpes simplex virus (HSV) deoxynucleoside analogue DNA polymerase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores) in immunocompetent adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older.
How to take it
Acyclovir Cream should be applied 5 times per day for 4 days. Therapy should be initiated as early as possible following the onset of signs or symptoms of herpes labialis, i.
Important warnings
Only for topical use of recurrent HSV lesions on the external aspect of lips and the face. Acyclovir Cream should not be applied on mucous membranes including in the eye or inside the mouth or nose.
Common side effects
The most common adverse reactions reported were local skin reactions at the application site. ( 6.
Interactions
Clinical experience has identified no interactions resulting from topical or systemic administration of other drugs concomitantly with Acyclovir Cream.
If pregnant or breastfeeding
8.
Forms & strengths
80 MG/ML Oral Suspension · 50 MG/ML Topical Cream · 200 MG Oral Capsule · 400 MG Oral Tablet · 0.05 MG Topical Ointment · 800 MG Oral Tablet · 200 MG Oral Tablet · 1000 MG Injection · 500 MG Injection · 25 MG/ML Injectable Solution · 40 MG/ML Oral Suspension · 50 MG/ML Injectable Solution · 50 MG/ML / 10 MG/ML Topical Cream
Questions to ask your doctor or pharmacist
- Is this the right medicine for my condition, and how long should I take it?
- What side effects should I watch for, and which need urgent attention?
- Does this interact with my other medicines, supplements, or alcohol?
- What should I do if I miss a dose or take too much?