Zovirax I.V. Description

A doctor may recommend Zovirax I.V. (intravenous) treatment if you have a compromised immune system due to an organ or bone marrow transplant, or HIV and you develop Cytomegalovirus (CMV). Once infected with CMV, it can lay dormant in your body and you may never be affected by it or even know you have the virus if you are in good health. Those with certain health problems and a weakened immunity may be required to stay in hospital for treatment with an infusion of Zovirax I.V. until the viral load has decreased.

Acyclovir Interferes with Viral Replication

After inserting an I.V. needle into a vein (usually on one of your arms), a doctor or nurse will begin the slow infusion of Zovirax I.V. over a designated time period. Because viral illnesses are not living organisms like bacteria, Zovirax I.V. and other antiviral drugs can only interfere with the virus’ ability to multiply, but cannot rid your body of this virus completely.

The active ingredient of Zovirax I.V. is Acyclovir; it hinders the virus from being able to replicate its DNA into your own cells so a new virus will not grow or be able to repeat this process. The infected cells absorb more Acyclovir than regular cells and turn more of it into an active form so the effects of Zovirax I.V. are prolonged.

Conditions Treated by Zovirax I.V.

Cytomegalovirus falls into three categories: 1) acquired or primary CMV which is a first time infection; 2) recurring CMV, meaning you have already been infected with by the virus, it went dormant, and has been activated again; 3) congenital CMV that can occur during pregnancy and can affect the unborn baby. Symptoms of Cytomegalovirus in babies or adults with a weakened immune system may include a rash, low birth weight, small head, sore throat, high temperature, or a loss of appetite. Those that are healthy and are infected may never display symptoms of CMV.

Before Zovirax I.V. is Administered

Tell your doctor or medical staff if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding before you undergo Zovirax I.V. treatment. To determine if a Zovirax I.V. infusion is safe for you, advise your doctor of other medical conditions or allergies you have and list any current OTC or Rx drugs you take or use, including herbal, dietary, or vitamin supplements.

Zovirax I.V. Precautions

You must undergo the entire treatment period recommended by your doctor or risk a re-infection or the virus may be able to build a resistance to Acyclovir. If you are scheduled for any lab appointments for blood and urine and just completed treatment with Zovirax I.V., inform the staff as this medication may interfere with the results. Once your health condition has improved from Zovirax I.V. treatment, you may be given a prescription for oral Zovirax to take at home until recommended by your doctor.

Possible Side Effects of Zovirax I.V.

• Pain or swelling at the I.V. placement site
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache

Drugs Similar to Zovirax I.V.

• Cytovene
• Valtrex
• Famvir