YOUR PRESCRIPTION FOR

ZOVIRAX EYE OINTMENT

What’s in your ointment

Zovirax Eye Ointment contains aciclovir 3%

Please read this carefully before you start to use your ointment.

This leaflet contains important information about your treatment.

If you have any doubts or questions, or you are not sure about

anything, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

REMEMBER:

This medicine is for YOU. Only a doctor can prescribe it for you. Never give it to

others. It may harm them even if their symptoms are the same as yours.

Return any unused ointment to your pharmacist for disposal. Do not use if more

than one month has passed since the tube was first opened.

KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN

Things to remember about Zovirax Eye Ointment

The name of your medicine is Zovirax Eye Ointment

(containing aciclovir).

It belongs to a group of medicines called antivirals.

It is used to treat herpes simplex infections of the eye.

Before using your eye ointment

Ask these questions before using Zovirax Eye Ointment.

Have you previously experienced an allergic reaction to aciclovir?
Are you pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breast feeding?
Do you wear contact lenses?

If the answer is YES to any of these questions, tell your doctor or pharmacist before

you use this ointment.

Using your eye ointment

It is important to apply the eye ointment as directed by your doctor. If you are not

sure, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Wash your hands before and after applying the eye ointment.
The usual amount to apply is half an inch (1cm) of eye ointment to the inside of the lower eyelid (as shown in the diagram)
If you find this difficult, it may be easier if a minor is used or for someone else to do this for you.
Try to avoid letting the tip of the tube touch any part of the eye.
After application, close your eye for 30 seconds. Repeat the application five times a day at approximately four-hourly intervals.
Your vision may be blurred for a short time (5-10 minutes), and you should wait until you can see clearly again before driving or operating machinery.
If you miss a dose of eye ointment, do it as soon as you remember. Then go on as before.
Treatment should normally be continued for at least three days after healing appears to be complete.

After using your eye ointment

This ointment may sometimes cause side effects in some people, but is normally well tolerated.

Occasionally a mild burning or stinging may occur when you first use the ointment, but this passes quickly.
If your eye condition appears to be getting worse rather than better, consult your doctor.

Storing your eye ointment

Keep Zovirax Eye Ointment in a cool, safe place where children cannot reach it. Medicines can harm if not used properly.
Keep the tube tightly closed.
Do not keep the ointment for longer than one month after first opening the tube.
Remember to return any unused eye ointment to your pharmacist, who can dispose of it safely.

The Product licence for Zovirax Eye Ointment is held by The Wellcome Foundation Limited, London NW1 2BP.

The Product Authorisation for Zovirax Eye Ointment is held in the Republic of Ireland by Wellcome Ireland Limited, Dublin.

This leaflet is produced in accordance with guidance issued by the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry.

The information in it applies only to Zovirax Eye Ointment,

Zovirax is a Trade mark of The Wellcome Foundation Limited.