Zovirax Duo FAQs

Find the answers to your most frequently asked questions about Zovirax Duo, the only 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, behind the counter. Talk to your pharmacist today about Zovirax Duo.
How is Zovirax Duo different from other cold sore products?

It is the only cold sore medicine that combines an anti-inflammatory agent (1% hydrocortisone) with an antiviral agent (5% aciclovir). It helps prevent the blister when applied at the first signs and speeds up healing if a blister develops.

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. If a blister has developed before you start to treat, 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.
Is Zovirax Duo suitable for everyone to use?

Zovirax Duo is suitable for adults and children 12 years and older. It is not recommended for use by children under 12 years.
Can I use Zovirax Duo if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

Take special care and check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breastfeeding. You should not use Zovirax Duo while pregnant or breastfeeding unless your doctor has told you to.