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Generic Zovirax Cream
At this time, generic Zovirax cream is not available. All of the patents for it have expired; however, no manufacturers have chosen to make a generic version. Because the medication is expensive, you may qualify to receive it for free through an assistance program offered by the manufacturer of Zovirax cream if your insurance company does not cover it.
Zovirax® cream (acyclovir cream) is a prescription antiviral medication approved to treat cold sores in adults and adolescents age 12 and older.
The medication is made by Biovail Pharmaceuticals. Although all of the patents for it have expired, no manufacturers have chosen to make a generic Zovirax cream.
Zovirax cream is surprisingly expensive, costing well over $100 for a tiny 5-gm tube (and about half as much for a 2-gm tube). It is often covered by private insurance and public assistance programs (such as Medicaid), although you may want to check with your insurance to make sure.
If you cannot afford your Zovirax cream and you do not have prescription insurance or public assistance (such as Medicaid or Medicare Part D), you may qualify to receive the medication for free through Biovail Pharmaceuticals. Unfortunately, the process usually takes a few months, so it is only useful for people who use Zovirax cream on a regular basis. For more information, ask your healthcare provider about Biovail Pharmaceutical's patient assistance program.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD