Zovirax Cream (Acyclovir)

Name: Zovirax Cream
Brand: Bausch Health
SKU: 5521
Availability: InStock

Type

Product

Manufacturer

Country

Dosage

Qty-Price (USD)

Type:

Product: Zovirax Cream

Manufacturer: Bausch Health

Country: Canada

Dosage: 5 %/5 gm

Qty-Price (USD):

Generic Equivalent of Zovirax Cream

Type

Product

Manufacturer

Country

Dosage

Qty-Price (USD)

Type:

Product: Acyclovir

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: India

Dosage: 5 %/5 gm

Qty-Price (USD):

Zovirax Cream Information

medically reviewed by Dr. HaVy Ngo, Pharmacist on April 2, 2026.

Zovirax Cream and Acyclovir at CanadaPharmacyOnline.com

The manufacturer of brand-name Zovirax Cream in Canada is Bausch Health Canada Inc. (formerly Valeant Pharmaceuticals). Zovirax is a long-standing antiviral treatment designed specifically for the localized treatment of cold sores. It is available in several countries worldwide, including Canada.

The generic acyclovir cream is widely available and produced by various reputable manufacturers that meet Health Canada's strict quality and safety standards. Common generic versions in Canada include those from Taro Pharmaceuticals and Apotex (Apo-Acyclovir). Generic versions are sourced from manufacturers that meet applicable regulatory standards. The specific manufacturer of your dispensed medication may vary based on pharmacy inventory.

Important Information about Generic Acyclovir

Generic acyclovir contains the same active ingredient as brand-name Zovirax Cream. It must meet the same effectiveness and quality standards. This means it is designed to work like Zovirax Cream. Studies have shown that generic acyclovir is bioequivalent to brand-name Zovirax Cream, meaning it has similar absorption and achieves comparable skin penetration. However, individual responses to medication can vary due to factors such as metabolism, genetics, and other health conditions.

For more information about generic drug approval and bioequivalence, please visit Access to Generic Drugs in Canada | Canada.ca.

Dosage:

Zovirax Cream (acyclovir) is available in a standard strength:
• Topical Cream: 5% w/w (50 mg of acyclovir per gram).

The standard dosage for adults and children (12 years of age and older) is to apply the cream 5 times daily for 4 days. Applications should be spaced approximately every 4 hours during waking hours.

Usage:

Zovirax Cream is used for the topical treatment of recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores) on the lips and face in immunocompetent adults and adolescents. It helps speed up the healing process and reduces the duration of pain and viral shedding. Zovirax Cream is not a cure for the herpes virus, nor does it prevent future outbreaks or stop the transmission of the virus to others. It is intended for external use only.

Mechanism of Action
Acyclovir, the active ingredient in Zovirax Cream, works by tricking the virus into stopping its own growth. Acyclovir remains inactive until it enters a cell infected by the herpes virus. Once inside, a specific viral enzyme activates the drug, which helps protect your healthy, uninfected cells. Once active, acyclovir acts as a broken building block. When the virus tries to copy its DNA to spread, it accidentally uses the acyclovir block, which causes the DNA chain to break. By preventing the virus from successfully replicating its genetic material, the medication stops the infection from spreading to nearby skin cells, allowing your immune system to resolve the blister more quickly.

Apply a thin layer of Zovirax Cream with a cotton swab to the affected area and the surrounding skin, as directed in the product monograph. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after application to prevent spreading the infection to other parts of your body or to other people.

The information below summarizes some, but not all, potential side effects, risks, and interactions. Before starting Zovirax Cream, it is essential to discuss all possible side effects, risks, and interactions with your doctor or pharmacist.

Side Effects:

The information below outlines potential side effects of Zovirax Cream (acyclovir). It is not an exhaustive list, and individual reactions can vary.

Common side effects: These are common side effects of Zovirax Cream; other side effects are possible. Contact your doctor promptly if any side effects are persistent, worsening, or concerning, or if you experience any other concerning symptoms.
• Itching or redness at the application site
• Mild skin drying or flaking
• Temporary stinging or burning immediately after application

Serious Side Effects: Seek immediate medical attention or call emergency services if you experience any of the following symptoms:
• Anaphylaxis: Rare but severe allergic reaction involving swelling of the face, tongue, or throat and difficulty breathing.
• Angioedema: Rapid swelling of the skin or mucous membranes.
• Severe Skin Irritation: Intense inflammation or hives at the site of use.

Contraindications:

The following is not an exhaustive list of contraindications. Before starting Zovirax Cream, it is crucial to discuss all your medical conditions, past and present, and all medications you are taking with your doctor or pharmacist.

Do not take Zovirax Cream/acyclovir if:
• Allergies: Do not use if you are allergic to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any of the inactive ingredients (such as propylene glycol or cetostearyl alcohol).

Tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, past and present, before starting Zovirax Cream. This is crucial as certain conditions affect the drug's safety.
• Mucous Membranes: Do not apply inside the mouth, nose, eyes, or vagina, as it can be highly irritating to these sensitive areas.
• Weakened Immune System: Patients with severely compromised immune systems (e.g., HIV/AIDS) should consult a doctor, as oral antiviral therapy may be required.

Drug Interactions:

Before taking Zovirax Cream, discuss all potential risks and interactions with your doctor or pharmacist. For complete and up-to-date information, please visit the prescribing information at https://pi.bauschhealth.com/globalassets/bhc/pi/zoviraxcream.pdf.

Provide your doctor with a complete list of all your medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, vitamins, herbal supplements, recreational drugs, and any significant dietary changes, as these may interact with Zovirax Cream. Zovirax Cream may interact with other medicines, including but not limited to:
• Systemic Interactions: Because very little of the cream is absorbed into the bloodstream, significant interactions with oral medications are highly unlikely.
• Topical Combinations: Avoid applying other skin medications or cosmetics to the cold sore area while using Zovirax, as they may interfere with the cream's absorption.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

Zovirax Cream should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Topical absorption is very low, but you should still consult your doctor. Acyclovir passes into breast milk when taken orally, but levels are negligible after topical use. It is generally considered safe for nursing mothers. However, do not apply the cream to the breast area to avoid the infant accidentally ingesting it.

Use in Children:

Zovirax Cream is approved for use in adolescents aged 12 years and older. While doctors sometimes prescribe it for younger children, its safety and effectiveness in patients under 12 have not been formally established.

Frequently Asked Questions about Zovirax Cream at Canada Pharmacy Online

Why is Zovirax Cream more affordable in Canada than in the United States?

Prescription drug prices, including Zovirax Cream, are generally lower in Canada than in the US due to a combination of factors, primarily government price regulations, differing market dynamics, and other economic considerations. In Canada, provincial and federal governments negotiate drug prices with pharmaceutical companies, which often results in lower prices than in the US, where market forces play a more significant role. For more information, see the FAQs on Prescription Drug Importation from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF): https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/faqs-on-prescription-drug-importation/

How much is the shipping?

Our shipping fee is a flat rate of $10.00 per order. Our pharmacy is dedicated to offering you the lowest prices on high-quality products.

How do I place an order with your pharmacy?

Ordering from us is very simple. You can purchase online or call Customer Service at 1866.920.3784; for more information or to learn about the ordering process, visit our How to Order page.

Is there a limit on how many Zovirax Cream tubes I can order at once?

CanadaPharmacyOnline.com can dispense up to a three-month supply of Zovirax Cream per prescription from your doctor.

Can I buy Zovirax Cream from you over the counter?

No, Zovirax Cream requires a valid prescription from your doctor. We do not sell this product without a valid prescription.

Do you ship to the United States?

Yes, we do. It usually takes between 7 and 18 business days to receive your order from our pharmacy.

Is there a generic for Zovirax Cream?

Yes, the generic acyclovir is available.

Blog Post:

Genital Herpes is Not a Death Sentence for Your Sex Life

Latest News:

A New 3-D Skin Tissue Model Helps Identify Possible New Treatments for Herpes Simplex Virus (news published on January 27, 2026)

Similar Drugs in the category of Antiviral Medication:

Valtrex Zovirax Denavir Zovirax Ointment Famvir

The information on this page is sourced from independent third parties contracted by CanadaPharmacyOnline. While we cannot guarantee its medical accuracy, we strongly recommend consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding medications or medical conditions.

Reviews From Real Customers