Why are some medications available only by prescription?

Prescription only drugs are only available with a valid prescription from a prescriber. These drugs are heavily regulated and require a visit to a prescriber, a diagnosis and monitoring by a prescriber to ensure the medication is working and that it is working safely.

Can you buy Zovirax in the US?

Zovirax is available online with a prescription from a medical doctor. All prescription medications in the United States require you to see a licensed provider.

What is the difference between acyclovir cream and ointment?

Acyclovir topical (for the skin) is an antiviral medicine that is used to treat skin symptoms caused by the herpes virus. Acyclovir topical cream is used to treat cold sores on the lips and face. Acyclovir topical ointment is used to treat genital herpes lesions.

What is the difference between acyclovir and penciclovir?

Acyclovir is available in intravenous, oral, topical, or ophthalmic (not currently approved in the USA) treatments. Topical acyclovir is prepared as a 5\% cream and ointment. Penciclovir is an acyclic guanine nucleoside analogue and is similar to acyclovir in potency and activity against HSV.

What is the difference between Rx and OTC?

Over-the-counter (OTC) medicine: Medicine that is bought in a pharmacy, drugstore, or supermarket and obtained without the need for a doctor’s prescription. Prescription (Rx) medicine: Medicine that is specially ordered for you by a doctor or other qualified healthcare practitioner, available only from the pharmacist.

Can I buy aciclovir cream over the counter?

You can buy aciclovir cold sore cream at most pharmacies and supermarkets without a prescription.

Is acyclovir ointment over the counter?

Topical acyclovir may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. Acyclovir is available only with your doctor’s prescription.

Is acyclovir ointment available over the counter?

In the United States, penciclovir (Denavir, Novartis) is the only FDA-approved topical treatment option. Topical acyclovir is also used, but is not FDA approved. Abreva (docosanol 10\% cream, GlaxoSmithKline) is an over-the-counter (OTC) alternative to these agents.

What is an alternative to acyclovir cream?

What do you call the medicines that can be brought without any prescription from a doctor?

Over-the-counter medicine, also known as OTC or nonprescription medicine, refers to medicine that you can buy without a prescription. It is the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that determines whether medicines are prescription or nonprescription.

What is the difference between prescription medicines and over the counter medicines?

The term over-the-counter (OTC) refers to a medication that can be purchased without a medical prescription. In contrast, prescription drugs require a prescription from a doctor or other health care professional and should only be used by the prescribed individual.