Zovirax vs. Famvir for Shingles and Herpes: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Acyclovir (Zovirax) and famciclovir (Famvir) are both antiviral medications used to treat herpes infections, including cold sores, genital herpes, and shingles. Acyclovir is available in multiple forms such as oral pills, buccal tablets, topical creams, and ointments, while Famciclovir is only available as an oral medication. Acyclovir needs to be taken or applied multiple times a day, whereas Famciclovir is typically taken less frequently, with some doses requiring only a single day of treatment. Acyclovir can be used in children as young as 2 years old for chickenpox, but Famciclovir is not recommended for those under 18. Common side effects of acyclovir include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, while famciclovir often causes headaches and nausea. Both medications require a prescription and are not available over the counter.

Acyclovir

(Zovirax)

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Famciclovir

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Summary for Zovirax

Prescription only

Acyclovir (Zovirax) is an antiviral topical medication used to treat certain infections caused by the herpes virus, including cold sores on the lips and face, as well as genital herpes. It's FDA approved as a cream for people 12 years and older and as an ointment for adults. You typically apply it 5 to 6 times daily to the affected area. Common side effects include mild skin irritation, burning, or itching at the application site.

Indications for Zovirax

Genital herpes in adults - ointment only
Herpes infections in adults with a weakened immune system) - ointment only
Cold sores that keep coming back in people 12 years and older - cream only

Pros and Cons for Zovirax

Pros

Not many interactions with other medications
Applied directly to the affected area
Typically only used for 4 to 7 days

Cons

Must be applied multiple times daily
Can cause burning and stinging at the application site
Ointment not FDA approved for children

Common Side Effects for Zovirax

Ointment:

Burning and stinging at application site (30%)

Cream:

Application site reaction (5%)

Warnings for Zovirax

For use on the skin only
Skin irritation

Summary for Famvir

Prescription only

Famciclovir is an antiviral medication used for the treatment of cold sores, genital herpes, and shingles. It works best if it's taken at the first sign of an outbreak.

Indications for Famvir

Cold sores (herpes labialis)
Genital herpes
Shingles (herpes zoster)

Pros and Cons for Famvir

Pros

Can be taken with or without food
Only needs to be taken for one day to treat cold sores and genital herpes in adults without HIV
Works well for most people to shorten the duration of herpes outbreaks
Available as a generic, which can be more affordable

Cons

Not a cure for HSV and VZV infections; only controls the outbreak
Needs to be taken at the first sign of an outbreak
Unknown if taking famciclovir can lower your risk of transmitting HSV to someone else
Can't be used in people younger than 18 years of age