ZOVIRAX LABIALE ® Aciclovir

ZOVIRAX LABIALE ® is a drug based on Acyclovir

THERAPEUTIC GROUP: Antivirals for TOPICAL use

IndicationsAction mechanismStudies and clinical effectiveness Usage and dosage instructionsWarnings Pregnancy and lactationInteractionsContraindicationsUndesirable effects

Indications ZOVIRAX LABIALE ® Aciclovir

ZOVIRAXLABIALE ® is indicated in the treatment of skin infections caused by Herpes Simplex Virus such as vaginal herpes and cold sores.

Mechanism of action ZOVIRAX LABIALE ® Aciclovir

Aciclovir, active ingredient of ZOVIRAX LABIALE ®, is a very effective drug against herpetic viruses such as HSV type 1 and 2 and VZV, therefore used with high frequency in a clinical setting.

Its mechanism of action is due to its ability to easily permeate the membranes of infected cells, thus becoming a substrate first of viral enzymes such as thymidine kinase and subsequently of cellular enzymes such as to determine their transformation to Aciclovir triphosphate.

It is the latter that, acting as a nucleoside analogue, is incorporated into the viral genome preventing enzymes such as the viral DNA polymerase from proceeding with the lengthening of the peptide chain.

This activity takes the form of an arrest of viral replication processes that guarantee a relatively rapid remission of symptoms and signs of infection.

Despite the high efficacy of action, which is also carried out following the simple topical application of the drug, in certain cases it is possible to find a natural resistance to antiviral therapy guaranteed by the onset of mechanisms that reduce the sensitivity of the virus to Aciclovir.

Studies carried out and clinical efficacy

ACICLOVIR ALONE OR IN ASSOCIATION WITH CORTICOSTEROIDS?

Prescrire Int. 2011 Sep; 20 (119): 205-7.

A very interesting study that shows how, taking into account the cost / benefit ratio, it would be preferable to use Aciclovir alone, rather than in association with corticosteroids, in the treatment of cold sores.

FORCES OF ACICLOVIR AND PHARMACOKINETIC PROPERTIES

Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo). 2011; 59 (9): 1089-93.

Recent pharmacokinetic study that demonstrates how the possibility of defining Aciclovir esters can significantly improve the release of the active ingredient in the center, significantly prolonging the activity of the drug itself.

ACICLOVIR AND MONONUCLEOSIS

Tohoku J Exp Med. 2013; 229 (2): 137-42.

Study demonstrating the great efficacy of Acyclovir in reducing the febrile period in patients suffering from Monucleosis infection, also controlling some of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying the disease. Despite important evidence, the potential molecular mechanism remains to be elucidated.

Method of use and dosage

ZOVIRAX LABIALE ®

Topical cream for 5% of Aciclovir.

In order to guarantee a prompt remission of symptoms, it would be advisable to apply the cream on the lesion as early as possible, taking care to renew this application every 4 hours except for the night period.

Usually healing is observed after 4-5 days of treatment.

In all cases, it would still be useful to consult your doctor before taking this medicine.

Warnings ZOVIRAX LABIALE ® Aciclovir

Compliance with the appropriate hygiene standards before, during and after the use of ZOVIRAX LABIALE ® represents a fundamental element useful in limiting the spread of the virus and the drug in the environment.

It is therefore recommended to avoid the application of ZOVIRAX LABIALE ® in the eyes and in the exposed mucous membranes, considering that the intense and prolonged use of the product could determine the onset of hypersensitivity reactions.

It is also worth mentioning the photosensitizing potential of Aciclovir, which obliges the patient in therapy to avoid direct exposure to ultraviolet rays.

PREGNANCY AND BREASTFEEDING

Although the use of this drug is generally contraindicated during pregnancy and in the subsequent breastfeeding period, it should be remembered that the topical use of ZOVIRAX LABIALE ® significantly reduces the systemic absorption of Aciclovir, thereby limiting its exposure to fetus and infant.

In any case it is always necessary to consult your gynecologist first.

Interactions

Clinically relevant drug interactions between topical Aciclovir and other active ingredients are currently unknown.

Contraindications ZOVIRAX LABIALE ® Aciclovir

The use of ZOVIRAX LABIALE ® is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to Aciclovir or to structurally related active ingredients rather than to excipients present in the drug.

Undesirable effects - Side effects

The use of ZOVIRAX LABIALE ® is generally safe and free of side effects.

The most frequently observed adverse reactions are represented by dry skin, desquamation and pruritus, whereas cases of hypersensitivity to the product have rarely been reported.