Zoviduo

Zoviduo Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Zoviduo is a brand name. Its generic name is Aciclovir.

Zoviduo Introduction

Zoviduo, also known as Acyclovir, is an antiviral medication used to treat a variety of herpes-related infections, such as shingles, genital herpes, and chickenpox. It is an oral medication available in both tablet and oral suspension form. It is also available in topical cream form.

Uses for Zoviduo

Zoviduo is used to treat and prevent infections such as herpes simplex virus (HSV)1 and 2, chickenpox, and shingles. It is used to reduce pain and heal sores caused by these infections. It can also help to prevent the spread of the infections.

Mechanism of Action

Zoviduo works by stopping the virus from making more copies of itself. It does this by stopping the activity of an enzyme the virus needs to replicate. This stops the virus from spreading, and ultimately helps it to clear up.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

Zoviduo may take up to 2 days for the viral shedding to reduce. It is important to note that the virus can still be passed on during this time. For the best results, Zoviduo should be taken for the full course of treatment, which can be up to 5 days.

Absorption

Zoviduo is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It is approximately 20% bio available, which means it should be taken with food or milk to enhance its absorption.

Route of Elimination

Zoviduo is eliminated via the kidneys, primarily as unchanged (or active) drug. Approximately 20–30% will be eliminated in the urine as inactive metabolites.

Dosage

Dosage of Zoviduo will depend on the type of infection being treated. The usual adult dosage for herpes simplex virus infections is 200-400 mg by mouth 5 times daily, up to five days. For genital herpes, the dosage is 200mg every 4 hours (6 doses per day), up to five days. For shingles, the dosage is 800mg five times per day for 7-10 days.

Administration

Zoviduo can be taken with or without food. It is important to take it regularly and exactly as your doctor prescribes. Do not stop taking it, even if you feel better, unless your doctor tells you to.

Side Effect

Common side effects of Zoviduo include nausea, stomach pain, headache, dizziness, and feeling tired. Some patients may experience an allergic reaction such as hives or difficulty breathing, which should be reported to their healthcare provider immediately.

Toxicity

Zoviduo has a low risk of toxicity when taken as directed and following your healthcare provider's instructions. The most common adverse reactions are gastrointestinal disturbances such nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Precautions

Patients with kidney or liver disease should use Zoviduo with caution. Zoviduo should not be taken during pregnancy, unless prescribed by a healthcare provider. Before taking Zoviduo, it's important to let your healthcare provider know if you have any allergies, sensitivities, or other health conditions.

Interactions

Zoviduo may interact with other medications such as probenecid, tubocurarine, certain antibiotics, and some antacids. It's important to tell your healthcare provider if you are taking other medications or supplements.

Disease Interaction

Patients with a compromised immune system, such as those with HIV, and those with kidney or liver disease, should use Zoviduo with caution as it can cause more serious side effects. It is also important for these patients to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions.

Drug Interactions

Zoviduo may interact with medications such as probenecid, tubocurarine, certain antibiotics, and some antacids. Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications or supplements.

Food Interactions

Zoviduo should be taken with food or milk to enhance its absorption. Its effectiveness can also be decreased if taken with certain foods.

Pregnancy Use

Zoviduo should not be taken during pregnancy, unless prescribed by a healthcare provider. It can pass into breast milk, so it should not be taken by breastfeeding mothers.

Lactation Use

Zoviduo should not be used by breastfeeding mothers. It can pass into breast milk and can harm a nursing baby.

Acute Overdose

An overdose of Zoviduo may lead to severe and even life-threatening side effects. It is important to contact your healthcare provider or local poison control center as soon as possible if you think you may have taken too much Zoviduo.

Contraindication

Zoviduo is contraindicated in patients who are allergic or hypersensitive to it. It is also contraindicated in patients with renal impairment or severe hepatic impairment.

Use Direction

It is important to follow the instructions of your healthcare provider when taking Zoviduo. Do not take more or less medication than prescribed or discontinue taking the medication abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider.

Storage Condition

Store Zoviduo tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the suspension form in the fridge (but not in the freezer).

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution is 0.2-1L/kg for Zoviduo.

Half Life

The average half life is 2.0 to 4.7 hours for Zoviduo.

Clearance

The average clearance of Zoviduo is 0.1 L/hr/kg.

Here you find in details version of Zoviduo

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Zoviduo

What is Zoviduo?

Zoviduo is an antiviral drug used to treat infections caused by certain types of viruses. It is most commonly used to treat ‘cold sores’ (herpes simplex) and ‘genital herpes’ (genital herpes infections).

What are the uses of Zoviduo?

Zoviduo is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, such as genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chicken pox.

What form does Zoviduo come in?

Zoviduo is available as a tablet, an oral suspension, and a topical cream.

How does Zoviduo work?

Zoviduo works by stopping the virus from multiplying and spreading, and so helps to reduce the severity and duration of the infection. However, it does not cure the infection.

How should Zoviduo be taken?

Zoviduo should be taken as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. It is usually taken with food. The dosage and length of treatment will depend on the type and severity of infection.

Who should not take Zoviduo?

Zoviduo should not be taken by people who are allergic to it or any of its ingredients, and by pregnant or breastfeeding women.

What are the side effects of Zoviduo?

Side effects of Zoviduo include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, rash, and dizziness.

Can Zoviduo be taken with other medications?

Zoviduo may interact with other medications, such as warfarin and probenecid, so it is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking.

What should be done in case of an overdose?

If an overdose of Zoviduo is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Zoviduo, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.

How long should I take Zoviduo?

The length of treatment with Zoviduo will depend on the type and severity of the infection. Follow all instructions given to you by your doctor.

Can I buy Zoviduo over-the-counter?

No, Zoviduo is available only with a doctor’s prescription.

What is the most common brand name for Zoviduo?

The most common brand name for Zoviduo is Zovirax.

Does Zoviduo cause drowsiness?

Yes, Zoviduo may cause drowsiness. It is important to use caution when operating heavy machinery or driving while taking Zoviduo.

How long does it take for Zoviduo to start working?

Zoviduo usually starts to work within a few days, but it can take up to a week or more for symptoms to resolve.

Can Zoviduo be used to treat infections other than those caused by herpes viruses?

No, Zoviduo is not effective against infections caused by other types of viruses.

What is the recommended dosage of Zoviduo?

The recommended dosage of Zoviduo will vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. Follow all instructions on the label or as prescribed by your doctor.

Can Zoviduo be used in children?

Yes, Zoviduo can be used in children over the age of two. Children younger than two years should not take Zoviduo.

Is Zoviduo safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

No, Zoviduo should not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it can harm the baby.

How long does Zoviduo stay in the body?

The half-life of Zoviduo is around 2-4 hours, meaning it is generally out of the body within a day or two.

What are the storage instructions for Zoviduo?

Zoviduo should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Should Zoviduo be taken with food?

It is recommended to take Zoviduo with food.

Can Zoviduo be used to prevent infections?

In some cases, Zoviduo can be used to prevent infections. Consult your doctor for more information.

Can Zoviduo be used to treat shingles?

Yes, Zoviduo is an effective treatment for shingles. It is important to start treatment as soon as possible.

What should I do if I experience any allergic reactions while taking Zoviduo?

If you experience any allergic reactions while taking Zoviduo, discontinue use and contact your doctor immediately.

Can Zoviduo cause weight gain?

No, Zoviduo does not cause weight gain.

Is Zoviduo an antibiotic?

No, Zoviduo is an antiviral drug, not an antibiotic.

Can Zoviduo be used during an outbreak?

Yes, Zoviduo can be used to treat a herpes outbreak.

Can Zoviduo be used to treat cold sores?

Yes, Zoviduo is an effective treatment for cold sores.

What are the side effects of Zoviduo in children?

The most common side effects of Zoviduo in children are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, rash, and dizziness.

How soon after taking Zoviduo should I expect to see improvement?

You may see some improvement in symptoms within a few days of starting Zoviduo, but it can take up to a week or more for full symptom relief.

What should I do if I experience any other side effects while taking Zoviduo?

If you experience any other side effects while taking Zoviduo, contact your doctor immediately.

Are there any interactions between Zoviduo and alcohol?

Yes, alcohol can interact with Zoviduo and should be avoided while taking the medication.

Can I take Zoviduo with other medicines?

It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and dietary supplements, as Zoviduo can interact with some medications. Your doctor will advise you on any potential interactions.

Are there any long-term side effects associated with using Zoviduo?

No, there are no known long-term side effects associated with Zoviduo.

Does Zoviduo have any effect on the effectiveness of birth control?

No, Zoviduo does not have any effect on the effectiveness of birth control.

What is the recommended dose of Zoviduo in children?

The recommended dose of Zoviduo in children will depend on the child's body weight and the type and severity of the infection. Consult your doctor for specific dosage and dosing interval recommendations.

What are the possible side effects of Zoviduo in infants?

The most common side effects of Zoviduo in infants are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, rash, and dizziness.

Can Zoviduo be used for long-term treatment?

In some cases, Zoviduo may be used for long-term treatment. Consult your doctor for specific recommendations.

Can Zoviduo be used to treat chickenpox?

Yes, Zoviduo can be used to treat chickenpox in children over the age of two.

Is Zoviduo safe to take with other medicines?

Yes, Zoviduo is generally safe to take with other medications, but you should always tell your doctor about all medications you are taking as some interactions may occur.

Does Zoviduo cause any upset stomach?

Yes, Zoviduo may cause mild stomach upset, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Can Zoviduo be used to treat genital herpes?

Yes, Zoviduo is an effective treatment for genital herpes.

Does Zoviduo interact with any other drugs?

Yes, Zoviduo can interact with other medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking as some interactions may occur.

Can Zoviduo be taken with other vitamins or supplements?

It is important to tell your doctor about all vitamins, herbal supplements, and medications you are taking, as some may interact with Zoviduo.