Generic Acyclovir Cream 5%

Introduction

Acyclovir Cream 5 % is a topical antiviral preparation indicated for the local treatment of herpes simplex virus (HSV) skin infections. The cream contains the nucleoside analogue acyclovir, which interferes with viral DNA synthesis, limiting the replication of HSV‑1 and HSV‑2 in the epidermis. In the United Kingdom it is prescribed for cold‑sores (herpes labialis) and other superficial HSV lesions where systemic therapy is unnecessary. The product belongs to the anti‑viral medication group and is marketed by several pharmaceutical companies; formulations are approved under the United Kingdom Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

What is Acyclovir Cream 5 %?

Acyclovir Cream 5 % is a semi‑solid dosage form containing 5 % (w/w) of the active pharmaceutical ingredient acyclovir. It is applied directly to the affected skin area. The cream is classified as a prescription‑only medicine (POM) in the UK but is widely available through licensed pharmacies, including our online pharmacy, which supplies the generic formulation at a reduced cost compared with brand‑name products such as Zovirax® Cream.

The cream is formulated with standard excipients (e.g., carbomer, sorbitan mono‑oleate, purified water) that give it a smooth, non‑greasy texture and facilitate uniform drug delivery across the stratum corneum. Manufacturer details may vary between suppliers; all authorised versions meet the European Pharmacopoeia specifications for purity, potency, and microbial safety.

How Acyclovir Cream 5 % Works

Acyclovir is a guanosine analogue that is selectively phosphorylated by the viral thymidine kinase (TK) enzyme present in HSV‑infected cells. This first phosphorylation step is far more efficient in infected cells than in normal host cells. Subsequent cellular kinases add two further phosphate groups, converting acyclovir into acyclovir‑triphosphate, the active metabolite.

Acyclovir‑triphosphate competes with the natural substrate deoxy‑guanosine‑triphosphate for incorporation into viral DNA. Once incorporated, it acts as a chain terminator because it lacks a 3′‑hydroxyl group essential for elongation. This halts viral DNA synthesis, reducing viral replication and allowing the immune system to clear the infection more rapidly.

Topical application concentrates the drug at the site of infection while minimising systemic exposure. Peak tissue concentrations are achieved within a few hours, and the drug is cleared from the skin over 24–48 hours, which supports a typical dosing schedule of five times daily for 5 days.

Conditions Treated with Acyclovir Cream 5 %

• Herpes labialis (cold‑sores).
  HSV‑1 infection of the lips is one of the most common viral skin conditions in the UK, affecting up to 70 % of adults at some point. Early‑stage lesions (tingling, erythema, or vesicles) respond well to topical acyclovir, with faster crusting and reduced pain.- Primary herpes gingivostomatitis.
  In children and immunocompetent adults, HSV can cause painful intra‑oral ulcers. While systemic therapy is often preferred for extensive disease, limited‐area lesions may be managed with the cream to decrease local viral load.

• Recurrent genital herpes (localized external lesions).
  For small, discrete HSV‑2 lesions on the external genitalia where systemic treatment is not indicated, topical acyclovir can be an adjunct to reduce lesion duration.

• Herpetic whitlow and other peripheral HSV infections.
  Infections of the fingers or other peripheral skin sites may be treated topically when the lesions are superficial and uncomplicated.

The British National Formulary (BNF) lists these indications for topical acyclovir, and clinical guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) reference its use as first‑line therapy for localized HSV lesions.

Who is Acyclovir Cream 5 % For?

• Adults with mild to moderate HSV‑1 or HSV‑2 skin lesions that have appeared within 48 hours of symptom onset. Early treatment maximises efficacy.
• Patients who prefer a local therapy to avoid the systemic side‑effects associated with oral antivirals such as nausea or renal impairment.
• Individuals with contraindications to oral acyclovir (e.g., severe renal insufficiency) but with intact skin barrier over the lesion area.
• Immunocompetent persons whose lesions are limited to one or two sites and show no signs of secondary bacterial infection.

When the cream is not appropriate:

• Extensive mucocutaneous involvement (e.g., widespread genital herpes, disseminated HSV infection).
• Immunocompromised patients with severe or recurrent disease, where systemic therapy is recommended.
• Presence of deep ulceration, cellulitis, or other secondary infection requiring antibacterial treatment.
• Known hypersensitivity to acyclovir or any of the cream’s excipients.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Local skin irritation – mild erythema, burning, or itching at the application site.
• Dryness or peeling – due to the cream base, usually resolves with continued use or after cessation.

Rare

• Allergic contact dermatitis – characterised by intense redness, swelling, or vesiculation; requires discontinuation.
• Hyperpigmentation – occasional post‑inflammatory colour change in darker skin types.

Serious

• Severe systemic hypersensitivity – rare, but may present as urticaria, angioedema, or anaphylaxis. Immediate medical attention is required.
• Significant renal dysfunction – systemic exposure from topical use is minimal; however, in patients with severe renal impairment, prolonged extensive application could theoretically increase plasma acyclovir levels.

Drug–Drug Interactions

Topical acyclovir has limited systemic absorption, so clinically relevant interactions are uncommon. Caution is advised when co‑administering with:

• Nephrotoxic agents (e.g., aminoglycosides, non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs) in patients with compromised renal function, as any absorbed acyclovir could add to renal burden.
• Topical corticosteroids – concomitant use may mask local irritation, delaying detection of contact dermatitis.

Patients should inform healthcare providers of all concurrent medications, including over‑the‑counter creams and herbal products.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard dosing: Apply a thin layer (approximately 5 mg of cream) to the affected area five times daily (approximately every 4 hours) for 5 days. Wash hands before and after application.
• Missed dose: If a dose is missed and the scheduled time is more than 2 hours away, apply the missed dose as soon as remembered and then resume the regular schedule. Do not double the next dose.
• Overdose: Accidental ingestion of a small amount of cream is unlikely to cause systemic toxicity. In the unlikely event of substantial oral intake, seek urgent medical advice; symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, or renal dysfunction.
• Food & alcohol: No dietary restrictions are necessary with topical use.
• Comorbidities: Patients with severe renal impairment should limit the total amount of cream applied and consult a clinician before use.

Store the cream at room temperature (15–25 °C), away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed and out of reach of children.

Buying Acyclovir Cream 5 % from Our Online Pharmacy

Acyclovir Cream 5 % can be purchased safely from our online pharmacy in the UK. Our service offers several advantages:

• Affordable pricing: We source the generic formulation near the manufacturer’s cost, providing a lower price than many high‑street pharmacies.
• Verified quality: All products are supplied by licensed overseas manufacturers that comply with EU Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards; each batch undergoes independent quality testing before dispatch.
• Guaranteed delivery: Discreet, reliable shipping options include 7‑day express for urgent need or ~3‑week regular airmail for cost‑effective delivery.
• Online‑only access: For patients facing limited availability in local pharmacies or those seeking a cost‑effective generic alternative, our pharmacy broker service works with reputable overseas licensed pharmacies and suppliers. This model respects patient privacy, offering a discreet service that protects personal health information.

Our platform complies with the UK Medicines Act and MHRA regulations, ensuring that every order is handled by a qualified pharmacist who verifies the prescription status where required.

FAQ

• **Can Acyclovir Cream 5 % be used on mucous membranes?
  Acyclovir Cream 5 % is formulated for external skin use only. Application to the oral or genital mucosa is not recommended because the cream base may cause irritation; a licensed oral formulation should be used for mucosal lesions.

• **Is there a risk of developing resistance to topical acyclovir?
  Resistance is rare in immunocompetent individuals but can occur in immunosuppressed patients with prolonged viral exposure. If lesions fail to improve after 5 days of therapy, a clinician should reassess the treatment plan.

• **Does the cream require refrigeration?
  No. The product should be stored at room temperature, protected from heat and humidity. Refrigeration is unnecessary and may alter the cream’s viscosity.

• **What are the inactive ingredients in the UK‑approved formulation?
  Typical excipients include purified water, carbomer, sorbitan mono‑oleate, sodium hydroxide (pH adjuster), and a preservative system such as phenoxyethanol. Exact composition may vary between manufacturers.

• **Can I travel internationally with Acyclovir Cream 5 %?
  Yes, the cream is permitted in hand luggage for personal use. Carry it in its original packaging with a clear label, and be prepared to show a copy of the prescription if requested by customs authorities.

• **How long can an opened tube be safely used?
  Once opened, the cream remains stable for 12 months if stored correctly. Check the expiry date on the package and discard any product that shows discoloration or an unusual odour.

• **Are there any age restrictions for using the cream?
  In the UK, the cream is licensed for use in adults and children over 12 years of age. For younger children, a healthcare professional should assess the risk‑benefit ratio before prescribing.

• **Does the cream interact with topical antiseptics such as chlorhexidine?
  There is no known chemical interaction, but applying an antiseptic before acyclovir may reduce drug absorption. It is advisable to apply the antiviral cream to clean, dry skin without prior antiseptic use.

• **Is Acyclovir Cream 5 % covered by the NHS prescription exemption?
  The NHS may provide a prescription exemption for patients meeting specific clinical criteria (e.g., recurrent severe HSV infections). Eligibility is determined by the prescribing clinician, not by the pharmacy.

• **What makes the generic version cost‑effective compared with brand‑name Zovirax?
  Generic Acyclovir Cream 5 % contains the same active compound, dosage strength, and therapeutic effect as the brand‑name product. Savings arise from the lack of branding, reduced marketing costs, and competitive sourcing, allowing us to offer a lower price while maintaining identical quality standards.

Glossary

Thymidine kinase (TK)

An enzyme produced by herpes simplex virus that phosphorylates nucleoside analogues like acyclovir, initiating their activation inside infected cells.

Chain termination

A process where incorporation of an analogue lacking a 3′‑hydroxyl group into a growing DNA strand prevents further elongation, halting viral DNA synthesis.

Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)

International quality standards that ensure pharmaceutical products are consistently produced and controlled according to strict guidelines for purity and potency.

Prescribed‑only medicine (POM)

A classification in the UK indicating that a medication may be dispensed only with a valid prescription from a qualified health professional.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Acyclovir Cream 5 % is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Acyclovir Cream 5 % for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.