Medical Questions » Medicines Questions » Question No. 638
| Question: | How good is Zovirax? At $150 for a course it should be brilliant! My doctor has suggested I use them for my cold sores, as i get them badly every couple of weeks. |
| Answer: | Zovirax tablets and similar medications are used to prevent and control attacks of genital herpes, shingles and cold sores. There is no other form of effective treatment available, but treatment MUST be started as soon as possible after the symptoms appear, and no later than three days after the start.
Cold sores are known to most people, and only very severe forms require the use of Zovirax tablets. Zovirax cream is also available, is cheap, and available without prescription, but must be used at the fust sensation that a cold sore may be developing.
A course of Zovirax tablets will certainly shorten an acute attack of any of these diseases, and if taken regularly it prevents recurrences in most people.
The use of Zovirax, and other similar antivitals, is subsidised by the government when used for shingles and genital herpes, but not for cold sores.
Unfortunately, Zovitax is not a permanent cure for cold sores or genital herpes, and repeat courses are necessary for every attack.
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