Zovirax^® Duo FAQs

Find the answers to your most frequently asked questions about Zovirax^® Duo, the only non-prescription cold sore medication that combines an anti-inflammatory agent with an antiviral.

General

What does the cream look and feel like?

Zovirax^® Duo is a smooth, white and odourless cream that dries clear on your skin.
How is it packaged?

Zovirax^® Duo comes in a convenient 2-gram tube.
Where can I buy Zovirax® Duo?

It’s available at your local chemist or pharmacy. Consult your pharmacist if you need help finding Zovirax^® Duo.
How is Zovirax® Duo different from other cold sore products?

It is the only non-prescription cold sore medicine that combines an anti-inflammatory agent with an antiviral. It contains 1% hydrocortisone to reduce inflammation and 5% aciclovir to block viral replication. It can stop a cold sore progressing to a blister when applied at the first signs and speeds healing if the cold sore has developed. There is no other non-prescription treatment like it.
Does the tube contain latex?

The tube does not contain latex.

Applying Zovirax^® Duo

What happens if I swallow some Zovirax® Duo?

If you accidentally use too much or swallow the cream, it is unlikely that any untoward effects would occur. However, if you swallow a large amount of the cream, it is recommended that you speak to a doctor or pharmacist.
Can I apply cosmetics on top of it?

Yes. Cosmetics, such as lipstick, may be applied over Zovirax^® Duo once it is dry. However, use a separate applicator (like a cotton swab) to apply cosmetics or sunscreen over an unhealed cold sore. This helps to avoid spreading the infection. Please, remove any cosmetics prior to applying/reapplying Zovirax^® Duo.

Using Zovirax^® Duo

When should I use Zovirax® Duo?

For best results, start applying Zovirax^® Duo at the first sign of a cold sore; the tingle, redness, bump or itch. Use Zovirax^® Duo five times a day for five days.

Find out more.
Can I start using Zovirax® Duo if I feel a tingle but the cold sore hasn’t erupted?

Yes. Begin using Zovirax^® Duo at the first sign of a cold sore for the best results. And continue using the cream for five days.

Learn about the tingle stage.
Can I start using Zovirax® Duo after the blister has developed?

Best results are seen when Zovirax^® Duo is used at the tingle stage. If a cold sore does go on to develop, despite treatment being started at tingle, you can continue using Zovirax^® Duo to help speed healing. Alternatively, you can use Zovirax^® Cold Sore Cream – its unique formulation efficiently fights the virus that causes cold sores at the tingle or blister stage.

Learn about the blister stage
Will the scab on my cold sore interfere with absorption of Zovirax® Duo?

Once the scab has formed, your cold sore has nearly healed. Keep applying the product as directed for five days.

Learn about the scabbing stage
How often do I need to apply Zovirax® Duo?

Apply five times a day for five days during waking hours.
What if I miss a dose of Zovirax® Duo?

Apply the cream as soon as you remember and then reapply the next dose on schedule.
Can I use Zovirax® Duo for longer than five days?

No, Zovirax^® Duo is not recommended for longer than five days. If you still have a cold sore after 10 days, you should contact your healthcare professional for advice. They can give you an updated diagnosis and possibly additional treatment.
Is Zovirax® Duo suitable for everyone to use?

Zovirax^® Duo is suitable for adults and children over 12 years old. It is not recommended for use by children of 12 years or younger.
Can I use Zovirax® Duo if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

Take special care and check with your doctor or pharmacist before you use this medicine if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breastfeeding.