Zovirax ®
We’ll deliver to you in 2-5 days
Price checker
5%
$432.95
  • Prices include:
    Express shipping

    2-5 day shipping by secure courier

  • Consultation + Access to our clinicians

    Ask our experts anything you like, any time you want.

  • Total
    $432.95
    Save $0.00 each order
Reviewed on June 04, 2025. by
Dr Alexandra Cristina Cowell
Writer & Clinical Content Reviewer
Next review due on
June 04, 2028.
Dr Alexandra Cristina Cowell

Last updated on Jun 03, 2025.

Topical antiviral cream for genital herpes.

Zovirax is the branded form of Acyclovir, and its active ingredient is 5% aciclovir. It’s an easy-to-use topical treatment that helps you heal faster and feel better during an outbreak.

Price checker
5%
$432.95
  • Prices include:
    Express shipping

    2-5 day shipping by secure courier

  • Consultation + Access to our clinicians

    Ask our experts anything you like, any time you want.

  • Total
    $432.95
    Save $0.00 each order
Zovirax Aciclovir

What is Zovirax?

Zovirax is a 5% aciclovir cream that treats genital herpes outbreaks caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It works best when applied as soon as you notice the first signs of an outbreak, like tingling or redness.

It can be used during both first and recurrent episodes. Research has shown that it can significantly shorten healing time, reduce the spread of the virus, and ease symptoms, compared to no treatment or placebo.[1]

How does Zovirax work for genital herpes?

Aciclovir, the active ingredient in Zovirax, works by interfering with the virus’s ability to reproduce. Once you apply it, it’s absorbed into infected skin cells and works to block the virus from replicating. This helps to stop the virus from spreading further, while allowing your skin to heal more quickly.[1]

Zovirax also reduces the amount of virus that gets shed from the skin, which helps lower the chance of passing it on to someone else.[1]

Will I get side effects using Zovirax?

Side effects from Zovirax are rare and usually mild. Some people might notice a temporary stinging or burning feeling when it’s first applied.

Allergic reactions are very rare, but if you experience swelling, itching, or a rash that spreads beyond your treatment area, you should stop using it and speak to a clinician.

What doses of Zovirax are there?

Zovirax comes as a 5% cream. Aciclovir, the active ingredient in Zovirax, is also available in an oral tablet form.

Treated trusted source:

  1. Kinghorn, G.R., Barbara Turner, E., Barton, I.G., Potter, C.W., Burke, C.A. and Fiddian, A.Paul. (1983). Efficacy of topical acyclovir cream in first and recurrent episodes of genital herpes. Antiviral Research, 3(5-6), pp.291–301.
Dr Alexandra Cristina Cowell
This page was medically reviewed by Dr Alexandra Cristina Cowell on June 04, 2025. Next review due on June 04, 2028.

How we source info.

When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.

Zovirax Aciclovir

How to take Zovirax

Apply a thin layer of Zovirax cream to the affected area five times a day, about every four hours (avoiding overnight). Make sure your hands are clean before and after applying.

Don’t apply the cream inside your mouth, eyes, or vagina, and avoid sexual contact while visible symptoms are present.

Zovirax is for topical use only. Don’t swallow it or use it in combination with other genital creams unless advised by a doctor.

What should I do if I use too much Zovirax?

If you accidentally use too much cream in one go, it shouldn’t cause any harm, just wipe away the excess.

If you swallow a large amount of Zovirax by accident, seek medical advice.

Dr Alexandra Cristina Cowell
This page was medically reviewed by Dr Alexandra Cristina Cowell on June 04, 2025. Next review due on June 04, 2028.

How we source info.

When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.

Zovirax Aciclovir

Zovirax isn’t suitable for everyone, and there are some things that you need to be aware of when taking it.

Here’s all the official info on it. If anything is unclear, let our clinician know, and they can talk with you about it.

Zovirax 5% cream

Zovirax Aciclovir

Zovirax: FAQ

Have something specific you want to know? Search our info below, or ask our experts a question if you can’t find what you’re looking for.

How does Zovirax compare with Valtrex and Abreva?

Answer:
Valtrex is an oral antiviral treatment, and is the branded version of valacyclovir. It's taken as a tablet and converted into aciclovir in the body. It's used in treating and preventing recurring herpes outbreaks.

Abreva (docosanol) is an antiviral cream that's typically used for treating cold sores (an oral form of the herpes virus).

How effective is Zovirax?

Answer:
Zovirax is effective at treating symptoms of genital herpes, particularly in reducing pain. It can also shorten the amount of time it takes to heal.[1] Studies also show that Zovirax shortens viral shedding, so it becomes harder for herpes to be passed on quicker.[1]

Can I drink alcohol while using Zovirax?

Answer:
Yes, there’s no evidence to show that alcohol interacts with Zovirax cream.

How long does it take for Zovirax to work?

Answer:
Zovirax starts working quickly after it’s applied. You might start to notice symptom relief within the first day or two. Studies show that lesions typically heal 2 to 6 days faster than without treatment.[1]

You should keep using Zovirax for the duration of your treatment period, even if you feel better sooner.

Can I get Zovirax through private health insurance?

Answer:
Zovirax can be covered by private health insurance, but this can depend on your provider and plan. If you’re unsure, it’s best to check with your insurer directly before ordering a treatment.

Treated trusted source:

  1. Kinghorn, G.R., Barbara Turner, E., Barton, I.G., Potter, C.W., Burke, C.A. and Fiddian, A.Paul. (1983). Efficacy of topical acyclovir cream in first and recurrent episodes of genital herpes. Antiviral Research, 3(5-6), pp.291–301.

This is healthcare on your terms.

All from the comfort of your device. Get access to what you need, when you need it.

100% online

Ask questions and get expert recommendations, at the touch of a button.

Tailored choices

We'll narrow down some treatments for you to choose from based on your medical profile.

Secure shipping

Receive your treatment by express delivery, in discreet packaging.

Easy automatic refills

Set your own delivery schedule and pause or make changes any time you like.

See how it works

Your partners in health

Get to know our clinical team. They review our info, prescribe and dispense your treatments.

Dr. Joseph Palumbo

Senior Medical Adviser
Dr-Joseph

Registered with NPI (No. 1043478878)

Meet Joseph  

Dr. Rami Ahmed

Prescribing Clinician
Dr. Rami Ahmed (1)

Registered with NPI (No. 1376740092)

Meet Rami  

Mr Craig Marsh

Clinical Reviewer
Mr-Craig

Registered with GPhC (No. 2070724)

Meet Craig  

Dr Daniel Atkinson

Clinical Reviewer
Dr D,new

Registered with GMC (No. 4624794)

Meet Daniel  

Here’s what you had to say

  • Service reviews
Treated
4.45

Average rating based on 2113 reviews.

Our verification process
551

Very convenient and time saver makes things easier

A
551

Treatment is going great! Fantastic service.

T
551

Understood my needs. Worked very fast. Script showed up quickly. Very satisfied. Highly recommend.

A
551

Ordered 8/21 and arrived 8/24. Always great service.

A
551

All worked as planned.

A
551

Everything is working very well thank you so much

J
See all our reviews 

Read more about Zovirax

Further reading

Woman with pink top and dark hair exercising with boxing gloves on

How to exercise safely when you have asthma

Thankfully, exercising with asthma isn’t impossible. It can take a little bit of planning, but the…

December 19, 2025 Read more
Man wearing checked shirt with glasses and grey beard in garden centre

What is an asthma attack?

Knowing the signs of an asthma attack and what to do is really important if you or someone you know …

December 19, 2025 Read more
A younger woman in a yellow cardigan sits on a couch with an older man in a blue jumper. They're both looking at a book held by the younger woman, and she's pointing to the page

Can taking weight loss injections lower your risk of getting dementia?

Everything you need to know about Wegovy and how it may lower the risk of neurodegenerative diseases…

December 12, 2025 Read more

Give us the inbox treatment.

We're making healthcare more about you. Sign up to our newsletter for personalised health articles that make a difference.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please talk to a doctor.

Tell us about a problem

Accept the terms of use terms of use

What did you like about it?

What didn't you like about it?

I'm looking for
Popular searches:
Viagra Wegovy Finasteride Varenicline Zepbound