Description

Zovirax Cold Sore Cream – Aciclovir Cream, 2g

Zovirax Cold Sore Cream 2g is a topical antiviral medicine containing aciclovir 5% w/w for recurrent herpes simplex virus infections of the lips and face. It acts locally at infected skin cells to suppress viral replication during an active cold sore outbreak. Medicines.org.uk

Zovirax Cold Sore Cream – Aciclovir Cream 2g is an antiviral treatment containing aciclovir 5% w/w for recurrent cold sores caused by herpes simplex virus on the lips and face. Aciclovir is activated inside infected cells and inhibits viral DNA synthesis, helping limit herpes simplex virus replication. The cream should be applied five times daily at approximately four-hour intervals, omitting the night-time application, ideally from the first tingling, redness or other early warning signs. Treatment should continue for at least 4 days and may be extended up to 10 days if healing is incomplete. Available through Dock Pharmacy, a legitimate, established GPhC-registered UK pharmacy.

Benefits

Zovirax targets the virus responsible for cold sores, rather than simply covering or moisturising the affected area. Aciclovir interferes with herpes simplex viral DNA replication, helping limit viral activity during the outbreak.
The cream can be used from the earliest warning signs and is applied directly to the lesion, providing targeted topical treatment with only minimal systemic absorption. Clinical studies reported in the authorised product information found a shorter average episode duration with Zovirax compared with vehicle cream. Medicines.org.uk

How to Use

Apply Zovirax Cold Sore Cream to the affected area five times daily at approximately four-hour intervals, omitting the night-time application. Apply it not only to the visible lesion but also to the immediately surrounding skin. Medicines.org.uk
Wash your hands before and after application. Avoid unnecessary rubbing of the cold sore and do not repeatedly touch it with a towel, as this may aggravate the area or help spread the infection.
Continue treatment for at least 4 days. If the cold sore has not healed, continue treatment for up to 10 days. If lesions remain after 10 days, consult a doctor. Medicines.org.uk

Side Effects

Uncommon side effects include temporary burning or stinging after application, mild skin dryness or flaking, and itching. Medicines.org.uk
Rarely, redness or contact dermatitis may develop. Very rare immediate allergic reactions, including urticaria and angioedema, have also been reported. Medicines.org.uk
Stop using the cream and seek urgent medical attention if you develop significant facial or throat swelling, breathing difficulty or another serious allergic reaction.

Cautions

Do not use Zovirax Cold Sore Cream if you are allergic to aciclovir, valaciclovir, propylene glycol or another ingredient in the formulation. Medicines.org.uk
The product is intended for cold sores on the lips and face. Avoid application to the eyes or inside the mouth and other mucous membranes.
Zovirax Cold Sore Cream is not recommended for immunocompromised patients. People whose immune system is significantly weakened should seek medical advice about appropriate treatment for any herpes infection. Medicines.org.uk
Store below 25°C and do not refrigerate. Medicines.org.uk

Why Choose Dock Pharmacy UK?

Cold sore products can look similar while working very differently. Zovirax Cold Sore Cream contains aciclovir 5% and provides true antiviral action, unlike non-medicated patches, barrier balms or simple soothing creams. Pharmacist support can help distinguish which type of product best fits your symptoms.
Dock Pharmacy is a legitimate, established GPhC-registered UK pharmacy, registered under GPhC reference 1091481. Its latest published inspection outcome is Standards met, and the GPhC confirms that OTC medicines can be supplied through its website. Pharmacy Inspections
Dock Pharmacy also currently maintains a dedicated listing for the exact Zovirax Cold Sore Cream – Aciclovir Cream 2g, helping customers identify the correct OTC cold sore formulation rather than the separate prescription-only Zovirax Cream product.

FAQ

What is Zovirax Cold Sore Cream 2g used for?
It is used to treat recurrent herpes simplex cold sores on the lips and face. Medicines.org.uk
What is the active ingredient in Zovirax Cold Sore Cream?
The cream contains aciclovir 5% w/w. Medicines.org.uk
How does Zovirax Cold Sore Cream work?
Aciclovir becomes activated inside herpes-infected cells and inhibits viral DNA polymerase, reducing the virus’s ability to replicate. Medicines.org.uk
When should I start using Zovirax?
Ideally, start during the first tingling, itching, burning or redness stage, although it can also be started after the blister develops. Medicines.org.uk
How often should I apply Zovirax Cold Sore Cream?
Apply it five times daily at approximately four-hour intervals, omitting the night-time application. Medicines.org.uk
How long should I use Zovirax?
Use it for at least 4 days. If healing is incomplete, continue for up to 10 days. Seek medical advice if the lesion remains after 10 days. Medicines.org.uk
Can children use Zovirax Cold Sore Cream?
Yes. The authorised indication and dosing instructions cover adults and children. Medicines.org.uk
Can Zovirax cause skin irritation?
Yes. Temporary burning, stinging, itching, dryness or flaking can occur. Contact dermatitis and allergic reactions are less common. Medicines.org.uk
Is Zovirax Cold Sore Cream the same as prescription Zovirax Cream?
No. Zovirax Cold Sore Cream is a GSL product specifically for recurrent cold sores of the lips and face. The separate Zovirax Cream is prescription-only and has broader authorised indications, including genital herpes. Medicines.org.uk
Does Zovirax Cold Sore Cream require a prescription?
No. The exact Zovirax Cold Sore Cream 2g product is a General Sales List medicine in the UK. Medicines.org.uk
No prescription required – pharmacist support available.
Where can I buy Zovirax Cold Sore Cream 2g in the UK?
Dock Pharmacy currently lists the exact Zovirax Cold Sore Cream – Aciclovir Cream 2g, subject to current stock availability. Dock Pharmacy

Zovirax Cold Sore Cream 2g is a 5% aciclovir antiviral cream for recurrent cold sores affecting the lips and face. It works by interfering with herpes simplex viral DNA replication inside infected cells. Apply it five times daily at roughly four-hour intervals during waking hours, starting as early as possible. The exact 2g Cold Sore Cream is a General Sales List medicine in the UK and does not require a prescription.