Side Effects of Zovirax

While side effects of Zovirax are possible, most people tolerate the medication well. The most commonly reported side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and a general ill feeling. In some cases, more serious side effects can occur. If you experience such Zovirax side effects as hallucinations, seizures, or signs of an allergic reaction, be sure to seek immediate medical attention.

 

Side Effects of Zovirax: An Introduction

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Zovirax® (acyclovir); however, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Zovirax. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Zovirax side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects of Zovirax

Zovirax has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials, in which a group of people taking the drug have side effects documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, the most common side effects of Zovirax included:
 
  • A general ill feeling -- in up to 11.5 percent of people
  • Nausea or vomiting -- up to 4.8 percent
  • Diarrhea -- up to 2.7 percent
  • Headaches -- up to 2.2 percent.
     

Serious Side Effects of Zovirax

Some side effects with Zovirax, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. These include but are not limited to:
 
  • Aggressiveness or agitation
  • Hallucinations
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding
  • Seizures
  • Unusual decreased urine production
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, including unexplained rash, hives, itching, and unexplained swelling.
     
(Side Effects of Zovirax Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;