Zovirax Duo-Active, 5% cream +1% 2 g

Aciclovir is active against Herpes simplex 1 and 2 types, Varicella zoster virus, Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegaloviruses. Thymidine kinase of virus-infected cells actively converts acyclovir into acyclovir mono-, di- and triphosphate through a series of reactions.

The latter interacts with the viral DNA polymerase and is incorporated into the DNA that is synthesized for new viruses. Thus, “defective” viral DNA is formed, which leads to suppression of replication of new generations of viruses.

Hydrocortisone refers to slightly active glucocorticosteroids. When used topically and topically hydrocortisone has therapeutic activity due to its anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, anti-allergic and anti-exudative (due to its vasoconstrictor effect) action.

Due to combination of antiviral action caused by acyclovir and anti-inflammatory action caused by hydrocortisone Zovirax® Duo-Active prevents formation of vesicular rash on the affected skin areas (when used in prodromal period) and reduces healing time of the formed rash elements.

Indications

Recurrent infection of the skin of the lips caused by the herpes virus (Herpes simplex) in adults and children over 12 years of age.

Pharmacological effect

A combination drug containing acyclovir and hydrocortisone.

Acyclovir is active against Herpes simplex types 1 and 2, Varicella zoster virus, Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegaloviruses. Thymidine kinase of virus-infected cells, through a series of sequential reactions, actively converts acyclovir into mono-, di- and triphosphate of acyclovir.

The latter interacts with the viral DNA polymerase and is integrated into the DNA that is synthesized for new viruses. Thus, “defective” viral DNA is formed, which leads to suppression of the replication of new generations of viruses.

Hydrocortisone is a weakly active glucocorticosteroid. When applied externally and locally, the therapeutic activity of hydrocortisone is due to its anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, antiallergic and antiexudative (due to the vasoconstrictor effect) effect.

As a result of the combination of the antiviral effect provided by acyclovir and the anti-inflammatory effect provided by hydrocortisone, the drug Zovirax® Duo-Active prevents the formation of vesicular rash elements on the affected areas of the skin (when used in the prodromal period), and also reduces the healing time of already formed rash elements.

Special instructions

To achieve the maximum therapeutic effect and prevent the formation of vesicles (bubbles) on the skin, it is necessary to start using the drug when the first signs of the disease appear (burning, itching, tingling, feeling of tightness).

If there are severe manifestations of a herpetic infection of the skin of the lips, you should consult a doctor.

The cream can only be used for herpes on the lips. It is not recommended to apply the drug to the mucous membranes of the mouth and eyes, or to use cream for the treatment of genital herpes.

Avoid getting the cream in your eyes.

Do not apply occlusive dressings, patches or special anti-herpetic masking patches to the site where the cream is applied. Patients with immunodeficiency conditions should follow the doctor’s recommendations when treating any infectious diseases. Because these patients are at high risk of developing resistance to acyclovir, they should not use this drug.

The drug contains cetyl alcohol, which can cause local skin reactions such as contact dermatitis, and propylene glycol, which can cause skin irritation.

Impact on the ability to drive vehicles and machinery

The drug Zovirax® Duo-Active does not affect the performance of potentially hazardous activities that require special attention and quick reactions (driving a car and other vehicles, working with moving mechanisms, working as a dispatcher and operator, etc.).

Active ingredient

Acyclovir, Hydrocortisone

Composition

Active ingredients:

acyclovir 50 mg;

hydrocortisone 10 mg.

Excipients: liquid paraffin – 56.5 mg, soft white paraffin – 100 mg, isopropyl myristate – 150 mg, sodium lauryl sulfate – 8 mg, cetostearyl alcohol (cetyl alcohol – 60%, stearyl alcohol – 40%) – 67.5 mg, poloxamer 188 – 10 mg, propylene glycol – 200 mg, citric acid monohydrate – 1.4 mg, sodium hydroxide – 0.6 mg q.s. until pH is reached, hydrochloric acid – q.s. until pH is reached, purified water – q.s. up to 1000 mg.

Pregnancy

The use of Zovirax® Duo-Active during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not recommended, unless prescribed by a doctor (if the expected benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus and child).

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to acyclovir, valacyclovir, hydrocortisone and other components of the drug;
skin lesions caused by other viruses, fungal, bacterial skin diseases, as well as parasitic skin infections;
Skin tumors, rosacea, acne vulgaris, perioral dermatitis;
Children’s age up to 12 years.

Side Effects

Adverse reactions were local in nature and occurred in areas where the drug was applied.

Side effects are classified by organ system and frequency. The frequency of side effects is defined as follows: very common (≥ 1/10), common (≥ 1/100 and < 1/10), uncommon (≥ 1/1000 and < 1/100), rare (≥ 1/10,000 and < 1/1000) and very rare (≥ 1/100,000 and < 1/10 000).Allergic reactions:Very rarely – immediate hypersensitivity reactions, including angioedema.From the skin and subcutaneous tissues:Often – dryness, flaking of the skin;
Uncommon – short-term burning, tingling in areas where the drug was applied; itching;
Rarely – redness of the skin; changes in skin pigmentation; allergic dermatitis, most often associated with a reaction to hydrocortisone or excipients.

Local reactions:
Rarely – symptoms of an inflammatory reaction (pain, swelling, redness, local increase in tissue temperature).

If any of the listed side effects occur, stop taking the drug and consult your doctor immediately.

Interaction

When used externally, no interactions with other drugs have been identified.

Overdose

No adverse effects were observed following accidental ingestion or single use of the entire contents of the package.

If you suspect an overdose, you should seek medical help.

Clinical pharmacology

Suction and distribution

When the drug is applied topically, systemic absorption of acyclovir is minimal; hydrocortisone can penetrate the stratum corneum of the epidermis, reaching its lower layers, and is absorbed in small quantities.

When used in recommended doses, it does not cause suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system.

Storage conditions

Store at a temperature not exceeding 25°C.

Do not store in the refrigerator.

Do not freeze.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Shelf life

2 years

Manufacturer

Glaxo Welcome Operations, UK