In early 70’s US officially recognized genital herpes as an epidemic, because there was no cure
for this; around 10-15 million people were diagnosed by this sexually transmitted disease in 5 years; people can get herpes by the
transmission of herpes simplex virus from one person to another, in different intensity. Major symptoms were the painful blisters-like
sores in the genital area; which disappear but reoccur after two to three weeks.
So in March 1984, FDA approved this drug Acyclovir
with the brand name Zovirax for using in the initial attack period of herpes; this pill is not affective in curing the herpes but the
Acyclovir ointment helps healing the sores and lessens the pain. FDA had done clinical trials before approving it for future sale in
market, Acyclovir can interfere with the herpes simplex virus and can stop the virus to expand and replicate. This pill then worked
as a life savor, especially for women because this herpes can develop cervical cancer; while in pregnant women doctors advised them
to have a C section because its dangerous for newborn babies and baby may suffer from blindness, brain damage or may die. Chicken pox
is a popular major viral childhood illness, which had no vaccination available.
This Zovirax is also very effective for the oral
treatment of Chicken pox. Zovirax is helpful in reducing the number of chicken pox lesions and if treatment is started within
first 24 hours it helps in speeding up the process, cleaning and healing of the chicken pox. So FDA approves it in the same year
after the trials and experiments; FDA advisory panel because the effects of this drug is diffident and not predominantly positive.
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