Pricing
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All price changes →Indications & Uses
Acerux-H cream is used for early treatment of recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores). Starting treatment promptly at the first signs helps prevent the sores from progressing to the ulcer stage and helps the lesion heal faster. It is suitable for adults and children aged 6 years and above.
Pharmacology
Acyclovir is a synthetic purine nucleoside analogue that inhibits Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2), both in cell culture and in the body. Its inhibitory action is highly selective because it has a strong affinity for thymidine kinase (TK), an enzyme encoded by HSV. This viral enzyme converts Acyclovir into Acyclovir monophosphate, a nucleotide analogue, which is then converted into diphosphate by cellular guanylate kinase and finally into triphosphate by several cellular enzymes. In cell culture, Acyclovir triphosphate halts replication of herpes viral DNA through 3 mechanisms: competitive inhibition of viral DNA polymerase, incorporation into the growing viral DNA chain (causing its termination), and inactivation of the viral DNA polymerase.
Hydrocortisone is the principal glucocorticoid secreted by the adrenal cortex. Applied topically, it produces anti-inflammatory effects that ease the clinical symptoms of a wide range of disorders in which inflammation is a prominent feature.
Dosage Reference
Reference Information Only
Dosages shown are general references from official sources. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized dosing.
Adults:
Apply this cream to the affected area 5 times a day for 5 days. For best results, start treatment as soon as the first signs or symptoms appear.
Side Effects
Most common adverse reactions (occurring in under 1% of patients) involved the skin at the application site: dryness or flaking, a burning or tingling sensation, redness, changes in skin colour, and other signs of local irritation or inflammation.
Cautions & Contraindications
Warnings & Precautions
Acyclovir and Hydrocortisone must not be applied to the eyes, inside the mouth or nose, or on the genital area. If a cold sore has not healed within 2 weeks, patients should consult a doctor for advice.
Contraindications
No known contraindications.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Pregnancy Category B. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of systemic Acyclovir in pregnant women, and no studies have been performed in this group. However, systemic exposure to Acyclovir and Hydrocortisone after topical use of this cream is minimal. It is not known whether topically applied Acyclovir or Hydrocortisone passes into breast milk. Since many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when this medicine is given to a nursing woman.
⚠️ Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Use in Special Populations
The safety and effectiveness of Acyclovir + Hydrocortisone haven't been established in children under 6 years of age.
Storage
Store Acyclovir + Hydrocortisone below 30°C, and keep it away from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children.
Common questions about Zenivir 5%+1%
What is Zenivir 5%+1% Cream?
Zenivir 5%+1% Cream is a medicine that contains Acyclovir + Hydrocortisone. It is made by Zenith Pharmaceuticals Ltd. It belongs to the Hydrocortisone & Combined preparations group of medicines.
What is Zenivir used for?
Acerux-H cream is used for early treatment of recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores). Starting treatment promptly at the first signs helps prevent the sores from progressing to the ulcer stage and helps the lesion heal faster.
What are the side effects of Zenivir?
Most common adverse reactions (occurring in under 1% of patients) involved the skin at the application site: dryness or flaking, a burning or tingling sensation, redness, changes in skin colour, and other signs of local irritation or inflammation.
Can I take Zenivir during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Pregnancy Category B. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of systemic Acyclovir in pregnant women, and no studies have been performed in this group. Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
How should I store Zenivir?
Store Acyclovir + Hydrocortisone below 30°C, and keep it away from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children.
Do I need a prescription for Zenivir?
Zenivir is a prescription (Rx) medicine. Take it as your doctor advises.