Buy Generic Acyclovir Cream 5% Online

Generic Acyclovir Cream 5% Information

Introduction

Acyclovir Cream 5 % is a topical antiviral preparation indicated for the treatment of superficial herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections of the skin. The cream contains the nucleoside analogue acyclovir, which interferes with viral DNA synthesis. In Hong Kong, acyclovir cream is classified as a prescription‑only medication and is commonly used by dermatology and primary‑care practitioners to reduce lesion duration, pain, and viral shedding. The product belongs to the antiviral drug group and is supplied by several manufacturers under various brand names, including the well‑known Zovirax® topical formulation.

What is Acyclovir Cream 5 %?

Acyclovir Cream 5 % is a white to off‑white emulsion formulated for external use. Each gram of cream contains 50 mg of the active compound acyclovir, a synthetic analogue of the nucleoside guanosine. The cream is packaged in tubes or pump bottles ranging from 5 g to 30 g, sealed to protect the formulation from moisture and light.

• Classification: Antiviral (topical anti‑herpetic)
• Development: Acyclovir was first synthesized in the 197s by Burroughs Wellcome (now part of GlaxoSmithKline). The topical 5 % concentration was later developed to provide high local drug levels while limiting systemic exposure.
• Manufacturer(s): Multiple pharmaceutical companies market the 5 % preparation in Hong Kong, including GlaxoSmithKline (Zovirax®), Teva, and generic manufacturers licensed by the Hong Kong Pharmacy and Poisons Board.

How Acyclovir Cream 5 % Works

Acyclovir is a guanosine analogue that undergoes sequential phosphorylation inside infected cells. Viral thymidine kinase (TK) first adds a phosphate group, converting acyclovir to acyclovir monophosphate. Cellular kinases then add two additional phosphates, producing acyclovir triphosphate. This active metabolite competitively inhibits viral DNA polymerase and becomes incorporated into viral DNA, causing chain termination. Because phosphorylation is heavily dependent on viral TK, drug activation is selective for HSV‑infected cells, sparing healthy tissue.

Topical application delivers high concentrations of acyclovir directly to the lesion surface, achieving tissue levels up to 200‑fold higher than oral dosing, while systemic absorption remains <5 % of the applied dose. Clinical studies have shown that viral replication is markedly reduced within 24‑48 hours of first application, leading to shorter lesion healing times and decreased pain.

Conditions Treated with Acyclovir Cream 5 %

• Primary HSV‑1 (oral) lesions (cold sores, labial herpes).
  • In Hong Kong, HSV‑1 prevalence exceeds 70 % in adults; recurrent labial outbreaks are a common reason for dermatology visits.
• Primary HSV‑2 (genital) lesions on external genital skin.
  • Although genital herpes is predominantly managed with oral antivirals, early superficial lesions may be supplemented with topical therapy to alleviate local symptoms.
• Herpetic whitlow (finger infection) and herpes gladiatorum (skin–skin transmission in contact sports).
  • These occupations are observed among athletes and service‑industry workers in the region.

The cream is not indicated for mucosal surfaces (e.g., oral cavity, urethra) where a liquid or ointment formulation may be required, nor for deep or systemic HSV infections such as encephalitis or neonatal disease.

Patient Groups Most Likely to Benefit

• Adults with recurrent labial herpes who experience frequent or painful outbreaks and prefer a localized treatment to avoid systemic drug exposure.
• Individuals with contraindications to oral antivirals (e.g., severe renal impairment, drug–drug interactions with oral acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir).
• Patients seeking rapid symptom relief during the prodromal phase (tingling, itching) before vesicle formation.
• Immunocompetent persons with limited lesion size (<5 cm in total area) where topical therapy alone is sufficient.

Acyclovir cream is not appropriate for:

• Extensive or deep HSV lesions, disseminated infection, or ocular herpes.
• Patients with known hypersensitivity to acyclovir or any excipients in the cream (e.g., parabens, propylene glycol).
• Children under 12 years, unless prescribed by a pediatric specialist, because safety data for the 5 % formulation are limited in this age group.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Local burning, stinging, or itching at the application site.
• Mild erythema or dryness of the skin.
• transient pruritus that resolves within a few days of continued use.

Rare

• Contact dermatitis mediated by hypersensitivity to cream ingredients.
• Hyperpigmentation of the treated area after prolonged use.
• Secondary bacterial infection of lesions if the skin barrier is breached and hygiene is inadequate.

Serious

• Systemic acyclovir toxicity is exceedingly uncommon with topical use but may occur in patients with extensive application over large body surface areas, especially in those with severe renal insufficiency. Manifestations can include neurotoxicity (agitation, confusion) and renal impairment.
• Anaphylactic reaction (rare) presenting with urticaria, angioedema, or respiratory distress; immediate medical attention required.

Drug–Drug Interactions

Topical acyclovir has minimal systemic absorption, so clinically significant interactions are rare. Caution is advised when combined with:

• Nephrotoxic agents (e.g., aminoglycosides, NSAIDs) in patients applying large amounts over extensive skin; monitor renal function.
• Immunosuppressants (e.g., tacrolimus, cyclosporine) if systemic acyclovir therapy is subsequently required, as additive antiviral activity may increase toxicity risk.

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

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard dosing for adults: Apply a thin layer of Acyclovir Cream 5 % to the affected area five times daily (approximately every 4 hours) for 5 days from the first sign of symptoms. Early initiation (within 12 hours of prodrome) yields the greatest reduction in lesion duration.
• Application technique: Wash hands, clean the lesion gently with water, pat dry, then apply a pea‑sized amount to each vesicle or ulcerated area. Avoid occlusive dressings unless directed by a physician.
• Missed dose: If a scheduled application is missed, apply the cream as soon as remembered unless the next dose is less than 2 hours away; in that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
• Overdose: Accidental ingestion of large quantities of the cream is unlikely to cause serious toxicity because of low systemic absorption. However, if a patient applies the cream over >20 % of body surface or ingests it, seek medical evaluation promptly. Supportive care (hydration, monitoring of renal function) is the mainstay.

Precautions:

• Do not use on open wounds unrelated to HSV, on mucous membranes, or on the eyes.
• Avoid concurrent use of other topical agents (e.g., corticosteroid creams) on the same site unless prescribed.
• Alcohol consumption does not affect topical acyclovir, but patients with chronic liver disease should still discuss overall antiviral strategies with their clinician.

Buying Acyclovir Cream 5 % from Our Online Pharmacy

Patients in Hong Kong can obtain Acyclovir Cream 5 % through our online pharmacy in Hong Kong, which connects directly with licensed overseas suppliers to ensure authentic, high‑quality products.

• Affordable pricing: We negotiate near‑manufacturer cost, offering generic acyclovir cream at a price substantially lower than brand‑name equivalents.
• Verified quality: All batches are sourced from GMP‑certified facilities and undergo third‑party testing for potency and purity before dispatch.
• Guaranteed delivery: Discreet packaging and reliable logistics guarantee delivery within 7 days via express courier for local orders, or approximately 3 weeks for regular airmail to remote locations.
• Online‑only access: Our pharmacy broker service streamlines prescription acquisition; a licensed pharmacist reviews your medical information and arranges the necessary prescription with a Hong Kong‑registered physician, complying with local regulations.
• Privacy‑focused service: Orders are shipped in unmarked containers, and personal data are handled in accordance with Hong Kong’s Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance.

This model provides a safe, cost‑effective alternative for patients who face limited stock, high out‑of‑pocket costs, or insurance barriers at traditional brick‑and‑mortar pharmacies.

FAQ

• Is Acyclovir Cream 5 % available in both brand‑name and generic forms in Hong Kong?
  Yes. The original brand‑name formulation is marketed as Zovirax® topical 5 % cream. Generic versions containing the same active ingredient are also approved by the Hong Kong Pharmacy and Poisons Board and can be purchased at a lower cost through our online pharmacy.

• Can Acyclovir Cream 5 % be used on the lips during a cold‑sore outbreak?
  The cream is intended for external skin lesions and can be applied to the vermilion border of the lips if the lesion is clearly demarcated. Caution is advised to avoid excessive spreading onto the oral mucosa, where the formulation may cause irritation.

• What storage conditions are recommended for this topical antiviral?
  Store the cream at room temperature (15 °C–30 °C), protected from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Do not refrigerate or freeze, as temperature extremes can alter the emulsion’s consistency.

• Is a prescription required to obtain Acyclovir Cream 5 % in Hong Kong?
  Yes, local pharmacies dispense acyclovir cream only with a valid prescription. Our online pharmacy arranges the prescription automatically after a qualified teleconsultation with a licensed physician, ensuring compliance with Hong Kong regulations.

• Can I import Acyclovir Cream 5 % for personal use without a prescription?
  Personal importation of prescription‑only medicines into Hong Kong is permissible only when accompanied by a valid prescription from a Hong Kong‑registered doctor. Importing without documentation may lead to customs seizure.

• Are there any differences in formulation between the European and Asian markets?
  The active concentration (5 %) and core excipients are identical across regulated markets. Minor variations may exist in preservative systems (e.g., different parabens) to meet regional cosmetic regulations, but therapeutic efficacy remains unchanged.

• How does the efficacy of topical acyclovir compare with oral acyclovir for labial herpes?
  Clinical trials indicate that topical 5 % acyclovir reduces healing time by approximately 1 day when started within 12 hours of symptom onset, whereas oral acyclovir (800 mg five times daily) shortens the course by 1.5‑2 days. Topical therapy offers the advantage of localized action with negligible systemic exposure.

• Can Acyclovir Cream 5 % be incorporated into a telemedicine treatment plan?
  Yes. Telemedicine providers may prescribe the cream after visual assessment of lesions via video consultation. Our online pharmacy collaborates with telehealth platforms to deliver the medication directly to the patient’s address.

• Is it safe to use other topical products (e.g., sunscreen) over the same area after applying acyclovir cream?
  Apply acyclovir cream first and allow it to dry (approximately 5 minutes) before applying other non‑medicinal products. Sunscreen can be used later in the day, but avoid layering additional medicated creams on the same site without professional guidance.

• What should I do if I develop a rash or worsening irritation after using the cream?
  Discontinue the medication immediately and contact a healthcare professional. A localized allergic reaction may require an alternative antiviral or a short course of topical corticosteroids under medical supervision.

• Does pregnancy affect the safety profile of topical acyclovir?
  Topical acyclovir is classified as Pregnancy Category B (animal studies show no risk; no adequate human studies). Because systemic absorption is minimal, it is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when indicated, but women should consult their obstetrician before starting treatment.

• Can I use Acyclovir Cream 5 % on children under 12 years old?
  Safety and efficacy in children younger than 12 have not been established for the 5 % formulation. Pediatric use should be limited to specialist‑prescribed cases, and dosing adjustments may be required.

Glossary

Viral thymidine kinase (TK)

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

GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice)

International quality standards that ensure pharmaceutical products are consistently produced and controlled according to quality criteria.

Systemic absorption

The process by which a drug enters the bloodstream and distributes throughout the body, as opposed to remaining localized at the site of application.

Contact dermatitis

An inflammatory skin reaction that occurs after direct exposure to an irritant or allergen, resulting in redness, itching, and sometimes vesicle formation.

⚠️ 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.