Unlike those creams and gels you can get over the counter, prescription ZOVIRAX® (acyclovir) Cream 5% has an antiviral drug inside called acyclovir (uh-sik-low-veer)—in fact, acyclovir is 5% of ZOVIRAX Cream. While that may not seem like a lot, it is. Acyclovir is a major reason why ZOVIRAX Cream works the way it does. This active ingredient was a medical breakthrough when it was discovered. How? Acyclovir was one of the first antivirals ever discovered—nearly 30 years ago—and is still being used today.
How Does ZOVIRAX Cream Work On Recurrent Cold Sores?
ZOVIRAX Cream is a prescription antiviral that goes straight to the cold sore. It offers you flexibility—you can use ZOVIRAX Cream at any stage of a cold sore, including the tingle—because the acyclovir in ZOVIRAX Cream specifically targets the cells that have been invaded by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). Once it gets into these cells, it stops the virus from copying itself, causing shorter outbreaks. That's how you know ZOVIRAX Cream goes to work right at the source. Keep in mind, ZOVIRAX Cream is not a cure for herpes, but it may lessen the duration of pain and shorten the length of your cold sore outbreak.
My Doctor Gave Me A Pill For My Cold Sores. Is That OK?
Of course it is. But it's important to know that there are other treatment options available. You may prefer to take a pill or you may prefer to apply a cream. Discuss your options with your doctor.