Zovirax® Ointment for Herpes Simplex

This antiviral skin ointment is used for herpes simplex outbreaks on the skin. It helps reduce lesion symptoms when started early. Available with US delivery from Canada, including options for acyclovir 5% ointment without insurance.

What Zovirax Is and How It Works

Herpes Simplex causes painful blisters and sores on the lips, face, or genital area. Zovirax® is a topical antiviral that targets viral replication where lesions appear. It contains acyclovir, a nucleoside analog that interferes with viral DNA polymerase. By limiting replication, the treatment can help shorten the course of an outbreak when started at the first signs of tingling or redness.

Border Free Health connects U.S. patients with licensed Canadian partner pharmacies; prescriptions are verified with prescribers before dispensing.

Acyclovir topical 5% ointment is applied to the affected skin. It acts locally, with minimal systemic absorption. Do not use this medicine inside the eyes, mouth, or vagina. If eye symptoms occur, review our resource on Ocular Herpes and contact your prescriber promptly.

Who It’s For

This medicine is intended for adults and adolescents with cutaneous herpes simplex lesions. It can be used for initial or recurrent outbreaks on the skin, including lesions on or around the genital area. Acyclovir Ointment 5% is not designed for intraoral use, ophthalmic use, or extensive eczematous skin. People with known hypersensitivity to acyclovir or valacyclovir should avoid this product. If lesions look atypical or you have severe symptoms, consult a healthcare professional.

Dosage and Usage

At the earliest sign of an outbreak, clean and dry the area gently. Apply a thin layer to cover lesions and the immediate margin of healthy skin. Standard labeling directs applications several times per day, up to six times daily, for about a week. Use a clean finger, cotton swab, or finger cot. Wash hands before and after. Avoid occlusive dressings unless instructed by a prescriber. If irritation worsens or new symptoms appear, stop use and seek medical guidance. When uncertain, follow the official prescribing information.

Try to begin therapy during the prodrome for best outcomes. Avoid touching lesions, then touching the eyes. Keep the tube tip from contacting skin to reduce contamination. Use separate towels during an outbreak to reduce spread.

Strengths and Forms

This product is commonly supplied as an ointment in a 5% concentration. Tubes may come in sizes such as 15 g; availability can vary by pharmacy. Generic acyclovir 5% ointment may also be available, depending on stock and prescriber direction.

Missed Dose and Timing

If you miss an application, apply it when you remember. If it is nearly time for the next application, skip the missed one and resume the regular schedule. Do not layer extra amounts to compensate. Consistency usually supports better results during an outbreak.

Storage and Travel Basics

Store at room temperature in a dry place. Keep the cap tightly closed to protect the medication. Do not freeze. Protect from excessive heat. Keep out of reach of children and pets. When traveling, carry it in your hand luggage with a copy of your prescription. If asked at security, state it is a prescription antiviral ointment. As with other Antivirals, maintain the original labeled packaging for clarity. A micro-cue for safety: encrypted checkout and temperature-controlled handling when required.

Benefits

This treatment acts directly at the skin site where lesions form. Local use may reduce tingling, stinging, or pain, and support faster crusting when begun early. It avoids swallowing a pill, which some patients prefer during short, localized outbreaks. The ointment base can help protect delicate skin while the active ingredient works on viral replication.

Side Effects and Safety

• Mild burning or stinging at the application site
• Dryness or flaking around lesions
• Itching or tingling
• Redness or mild irritation

Serious reactions are rare but can include allergic responses, swelling, or worsening rash. Stop use and contact your prescriber if severe irritation, hives, or breathing difficulty occurs. Avoid contact with the eyes. In immunocompromised patients, systemic therapy may be recommended; follow your clinician’s guidance. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, discuss risks and benefits with your prescriber.

Drug Interactions and Cautions

Topical acyclovir has low systemic absorption, so interactions are uncommon. Still, avoid layering with harsh exfoliants or strong topical steroids on the same area unless directed. Tell your prescriber about all medicines and supplements, including oral antivirals, because combination strategies may be suggested for frequent recurrences. Do not share this medicine. If a secondary bacterial infection is suspected, seek evaluation.

What to Expect Over Time

When started promptly, you may notice reduced tingling and local discomfort. Lesions can progress to crusting and healing with consistent use. Some people have shorter outbreaks than usual, while others notice more modest changes. Regular hand hygiene and avoiding triggers such as excessive sun or friction can help reduce future episodes. For frequent recurrences, your prescriber may discuss suppressive oral therapy, triggers, and prevention.

Compare With Alternatives

For people who prefer oral therapy, prescribers often consider Valtrex. It delivers valacyclovir systemically and may be used for episodic or suppressive regimens. For cold sores on the lips and face, some patients use the cream presentation; see Zovirax Cr 5 for a cream option your clinician may recommend for herpes labialis. Choice depends on location, severity, and your medical history.

Pricing and Access

Canadian pharmacies often provide competitive cash-pay options. Check our product page for Acyclovir 5% ointment price and current availability. We offer transparent listings so you can review options and discuss them with your prescriber. Ships from Canada to US is available with prescription validation. If you are looking for seasonal deals, see our Promotions page for current notices.

Availability and Substitutions

Stock can vary. If a specific pack size is unavailable, a prescriber may recommend a suitable alternative, such as a different manufacturer or an oral antiviral. Acyclovir 5% ointment from Canada may be substituted when appropriate, subject to your clinician’s approval and local regulations. We do not promise restock dates but update listings as supply changes.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

This therapy may suit adults with localized skin lesions who prefer a topical option. It is not intended for eye use or inside the mouth. People with severe dermatitis at the application site should ask their clinician for guidance. Consider requesting multiple tubes if you and your prescriber plan for frequent outbreaks; multi-month fills can reduce per-shipment fees. Set refill reminders so you have a tube ready at the first sign of tingling. Buy acyclovir ointment 5% only as directed with a valid prescription.

Dosage and Usage Details

Wash hands before and after each application. Apply a small amount using a cotton swab or clean finger. Cover the entire lesion and a small border of normal skin. Allow it to absorb before applying cosmetics or lip balm. Do not bandage tightly. Avoid kissing, skin-to-skin contact, or sharing razors or towels until lesions heal. If your clinician provides a different schedule, follow their instructions and the official label.

Storage and Travel Basics (Recap)

Keep at room temperature and out of direct sunlight. Do not leave the tube in a hot car. When flying, place medicines in a clear bag with your prescription information. For longer trips, bring enough supply plus a spare if your prescriber agrees. Check TSA and airline rules before departure to avoid delays.

Questions to Ask Your Clinician

• Right formulation: ointment or cream for my outbreak location?
• Best start time: can I begin at prodrome symptoms?
• Application frequency: how many times daily for my situation?
• Prevention plan: should I consider oral suppressive therapy?
• Skin care: which products are safe to use over treated areas?
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding: is topical acyclovir appropriate for me?

Authoritative Sources

FDA DailyMed official labeling resources

Manufacturer Information product portfolio

Health Canada DPD drug product database

Who It’s For (Recap and Safety)

Use this therapy for skin-limited outbreaks related to Cold Sores or Genital Herpes as directed. It is not a cure. For nerve pain after shingles, talk with your clinician and review our guide on Shingles and Chickenpox vs Shingles. For broad education, see Herpes Symptoms, Genital Herpes Treatment, and Managing Herpes. For origin details, see Canada.

Ready to proceed? You can place your order and select fulfilment with prompt, express shipping. US shipping from Canada is available with prescription verification. This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice.