Although most people have no problems with Zovirax ointment, side effects are possible. Common ones include temporary burning and stinging, itching, and rashes at the application site. Tell your healthcare provider if you experience a severe rash or itching or a rash that spreads beyond the area where the medication was applied, as these serious side effects of Zovirax may be signs of an allergic reaction.
An Introduction to Zovirax Ointment Side Effects
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with
Zovirax® ointment (
acyclovir ointment). However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Zovirax ointment. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Zovirax ointment side effects with you.)
Common Zovirax Ointment Side Effects
Zovirax ointment has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials, in which the side effects of a group of people taking the drug are documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine. As a result, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
- Mild pain (including temporary burning and stinging) -- in up to 30 percent of people
- Itching -- up to 4 percent.
Other reported side effects of Zovirax ointment included swelling of the skin (rashes) where the medication was applied. Tell your healthcare provider if you experience a severe rash, severe itching, or a rash that spreads beyond the area where the medication was applied, as these may be signs of an allergic reaction.
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