Acyclovir Tablet (Zovirax) Uses in Pakistan

Acyclovir (Zovirax) is a commonly prescribed antiviral medicine in Pakistan. This guide covers all approved uses, indications, and related essential information — from herpes simplex to shingles and suppressive therapy in immunocompromised patients.

Compiled by the PakVita Editorial Team · AI-assisted drafting with editorial review · Sourced from DRAP, WHO, BNF · Last updated: 2026-06-17

Uses

Quick Answer

Acyclovir (Zovirax) is used to treat Herpes Simplex Virus infections (cold sores and genital herpes), Herpes Zoster (shingles/daad), and chickenpox in immunocompromised patients. It is also used for suppressive therapy to prevent HSV recurrences. It belongs to the Antiviral (Nucleoside Analogue) class and is available in Pakistan. Always take as directed by your doctor.

Primary Uses at a Glance

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) — Cold Sores & Genital Herpes

Acyclovir is an effective antiviral treatment for both HSV-1 and HSV-2 (genital herpes). It stops the virus from replicating its DNA and reduces the severity and duration of an outbreak. The sooner treatment is started (at the first tingling sensation), the better the outcome.

As prescribed by your doctor. Standard adult dose varies by indication — typically multiple times daily. Always follow the doctor's instructions.

Herpes Zoster / Shingles (Daad)

Acyclovir is effective for treating shingles (herpes zoster). Starting within 72 hours of rash onset reduces pain and complications. High-dose treatment is required — self-medication should be avoided.

As prescribed by your doctor — ideally within 72 hours of rash onset. Standard dose typically 5x daily for 7 days — the doctor will decide.

Varicella (Chickenpox) in Immunocompromised Patients

In immunocompromised patients (organ transplant, HIV, chemotherapy), varicella (chickenpox) can become severe. Systemic acyclovir treatment is essential in this population to prevent complications.

As prescribed by your doctor. In immunocompromised patients, dose and duration are decided by the doctor.

Other Uses

Suppressive therapy — HSV recurrence prevention in immunocompromised
Herpes Encephalitis (IV acyclovir — life-threatening, hospital setting)
Eczema herpeticum (severe widespread HSV on eczema-affected skin)

Acyclovir Tablet (Zovirax) Uses (Fayde / Kis kaam aati hai)

Acyclovir Tablet contains Acyclovir, which belongs to the Antiviral (Nucleoside Analogue) group. All approved and common uses in Pakistan are listed below.

Primary Uses (Mukhya Istemal)

Herpes Simplex Virus — Cold Sores (HSV-1) and Genital Herpes (HSV-2)
Herpes Zoster / Shingles (Daad — chickenpox reactivation)
Varicella (Chickenpox) in immunocompromised patients

Secondary Uses

Suppressive therapy — prevention of HSV recurrence
Herpes Encephalitis
Eczema herpeticum

Who Should Take It (Kin logon ke liye)

Patients with confirmed HSV-1 or HSV-2 infection
Shingles (herpes zoster) patients — ideally within 72 hours of rash
Immunocompromised patients needing HSV suppression

When NOT to Use Acyclovir (Kab nahi leni chahiye)

If allergic to acyclovir or valacyclovir
Without a doctor's prescription
With severe renal impairment — without dose adjustment

Important Note on Viral Conjunctivitis

Acyclovir is not for viral conjunctivitis — for ophthalmic HSV, a separate topical ophthalmic antiviral is used. Avoid self-diagnosis.

Summary

Acyclovir is prescribed for herpes simplex (cold sores, genital herpes), shingles (daad), and chickenpox in immunocompromised patients. Always see a doctor before starting this medicine.

The information in this guide is for educational purposes only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Acyclovir kin conditions ke liye most effective hai?

Acyclovir is most effective for HSV-1 cold sores, HSV-2 genital herpes, and shingles (daad) — especially when started early. Always take it only for the condition the doctor has prescribed it for.

Kya Acyclovir bina prescription ke le sakte hain?

Acyclovir tablet is an Rx (prescription) medicine in Pakistan. Do not take it without a doctor's advice. Topical Acyclovir cream (Zovirax cream) is available OTC for cold sores.

Acyclovir kitne din mein asar karta hai?

Acyclovir shows improvement in cold sores and herpes outbreaks within 2-5 days if started early. A course of 7-10 days is typical for shingles. Follow the doctor's advice.

Kya Acyclovir long-term le sakte hain?

Yes — long-term use for suppressive therapy is done in immunocompromised patients. However, kidney function must be monitored. Long-term use should only be done under doctor supervision.

Agar Acyclovir kaam na kare to kya karein?

If symptoms are not improving, see your doctor — resistance or a wrong diagnosis is possible. Do not increase the dose on your own.

Brand alternatives, same-class options, and other medicines used for the same conditions as Acyclovir Tablet (Zovirax).

Used for the same conditions

Other medicines commonly used for cold and flu and overlapping conditions.

Cold and Flu hub →

Sources

DRAP Registered Products Database — Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan
WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, 23rd ed. (2023) — World Health Organization
British National Formulary (BNF) — BMJ Group & Pharmaceutical Press

Medical disclaimer

This page is for educational use only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always confirm diagnosis, dose, and interactions with a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medicine.