Acyclovir Cream and Ointment Usage Precautions

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Why is the warning not to use Acyclovir cream and ointment in the eye necessary?

Because the cream may cause cold sores and fever blisters
Because the ointment is not intended for use in the mouth or vagina
Because the cream contains ingredients that are irritant to the eyes (correct)
Because the ointment base is highly hygroscopic and can irritate mucosal membranes

What is the function of Poloxamer 407 in Zovirax Cream 5%?

Hydrophilic non-ionic surfactant (correct)
Hydrocarbon (oleaginous part)
Emulsifying agent
Co-solvent (aqueous part)

Why is Acyclovir 5% cream not recommended for use on the genitals?

Because it may cause cold sores and fever blisters
Because it is not effective in treating genital herpes (correct)
Because the ointment can be used instead
Because it may irritate the mucosal membranes

What is the main advantage of using ointment bases like PEG?

They provide a hydrophobic barrier on the skin surface (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of mineral oil in Zovirax Cream 5%?

Hydrocarbon (oleaginous part) and can also serve as a levigating agent (D) Signup and view all the answers

Why is the efficacy of Acyclovir 5% cream in treating genital herpes limited?

Because it only decreases the duration of itching compared to placebo (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern regarding the storage of acyclovir ointment?

Chemical stability of acyclovir in the presence of water (B) Signup and view all the answers

What patient counseling point is necessary to reduce systemic absorption of acyclovir from topical products?

Avoiding unnecessary rubbing of the affected area (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason why acyclovir is formulated in a PEG ointment base?

To enhance its water solubility (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of using a cream formulation of acyclovir?

Improved physical stability of the emulsion (B) Signup and view all the answers

What would be the consequence of formulating acyclovir in a hydrocarbon base?

Delayed drug release due to lipophilicity (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a contraindication for the use of topical acyclovir products?

Open wounds or broken skin (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum solubility of acyclovir in water at 37°C?

2.5 mg/mL (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of PEG ointment bases in terms of texture properties?

Stiffness and Adhesiveness (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a scenario that would increase the systemic absorption of acyclovir from topical products?

Shaving the affected area to enhance skin permeation (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of PEG 1500 on the ointment base?

Increases the hydrophilicity of the ointment base (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern regarding the use of PEG ointment bases in acyclovir formulations?

Hygroscopicity of the ointment base (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the range of solubility of acyclovir in water?

1.2-1.6 mg/mL (A) Signup and view all the answers