Suppliers and packagers for ZOVIRAX

ZOVIRAX

Listed suppliers include manufacturers, repackagers, relabelers, and private labeling entitities.

Applicant	Tradename	Generic Name	Dosage	NDA	NDA/ANDA	Supplier	Package Code	Package	Marketing Start
Bausch	ZOVIRAX	acyclovir	CREAM;TOPICAL	021478	NDA AUTHORIZED GENERIC	Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc.	0093-3630-20	1 TUBE in 1 CARTON (0093-3630-20) / 5 g in 1 TUBE	2019-08-29
Bausch	ZOVIRAX	acyclovir	CREAM;TOPICAL	021478	NDA	Bausch Health US, LLC	0187-0994-45	1 TUBE in 1 CARTON (0187-0994-45) / 5 g in 1 TUBE	2002-12-30
Bausch	ZOVIRAX	acyclovir	OINTMENT;TOPICAL	018604	NDA	Bausch Health US, LLC	0187-0993-95	1 TUBE in 1 CARTON (0187-0993-95) / 30 g in 1 TUBE	1982-03-29
Bausch	ZOVIRAX	acyclovir	OINTMENT;TOPICAL	018604	NDA AUTHORIZED GENERIC	ACTAVIS PHARMA, INC.	0591-1159-30	1 TUBE in 1 CARTON (0591-1159-30) / 30 g in 1 TUBE	2014-04-11

Suppliers for the Pharmaceutical Drug: ZOVIRAX

Last updated: August 3, 2025

Introduction

Zovirax is a globally recognized antiviral medication containing acyclovir, primarily prescribed for the treatment of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles. As the drug’s popularity continues, understanding its key suppliers, production infrastructure, and supply chain dynamics offers valuable insights for industry stakeholders, healthcare providers, and investors. This article explores the principal suppliers involved in the manufacturing and distribution of Zovirax, emphasizing their roles within the pharmaceutical ecosystem, and examines emerging trends influencing the supply landscape.

Manufacturers of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API): Acyclovir

The core of Zovirax’s supply chain rests on the procurement and production of acyclovir API. Several global pharmaceutical companies serve as the primary API manufacturers, exerting significant influence over the availability, price, and quality of Zovirax.

1. GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)

GSK is the originator of Zovirax and maintains an integrated supply chain that encompasses the manufacturing of both the API and the finished dosage forms. Historically, GSK’s extensive manufacturing facilities, particularly in Europe and North America, have supplied Zovirax globally. While GSK's strategic focus has shifted toward biologicals and vaccines, it continues to be a major stakeholder in acyclovir production, either directly or through controlled manufacturing partnerships.

2. Hubei Biocause Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

Chinese pharmaceutical firms have become significant API suppliers in recent years. Hubei Biocause is among the leading Chinese API manufacturers specializing in antiviral compounds, including acyclovir. They possess robust manufacturing capacity, compliant with international standards such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), enabling them to export APIs globally. Their cost advantage has driven increased market share, especially in cost-sensitive regions.

3. Zhejiang Hisun Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

Another noteworthy Chinese manufacturer, Zhejiang Hisun Pharmaceutical, produces acyclovir API with certifications suitable for global markets. Their focus on high-quality API production, backed by rigorous quality management systems, positions them as a reliable supplier for generic versions of Zovirax.

4. Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

Teva, a leading global generic drug manufacturer headquartered in Israel, sources acyclovir API from multiple external API manufacturers, including Asian suppliers. They produce generic acyclovir tablets, which often compete with branded Zovirax on price and availability.

5. Other Notable API Producers

Major Indian pharmaceutical companies such as Cipla, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, and Sun Pharmaceutical Industries also produce acyclovir API. These companies supply both generic medicines and ingredients for other brands, broadening the availability of acyclovir worldwide.

Finished Dosage Form Manufacturers

While GSK is the primary manufacturer of Zovirax, several other firms produce acyclovir-based antiviral medications under various brand names, often as generics.

• Makers of Generic Zovirax: Numerous pharmaceutical companies globally manufacture acyclovir tablets, capsules, and topical formulations to meet domestic and international demands. In markets driven by generic substitution, these manufacturers often operate under licensing agreements or rely on the same API supplied by Chinese and Indian producers.

• Contract Manufacturing Organizations (CMOs): Some companies outsource finished product manufacturing to CMOs, optimizing capacity and reducing costs. This practice is common in the generic antiviral sector.

Distribution Channels and Key Suppliers

Distribution of Zovirax involves a complex network linking producers, wholesalers, pharmacies, and healthcare institutions. Major pharmaceutical distributors, including McKesson, Cardinal Health, and Celesio, facilitate the movement of Zovirax from manufacturing sites to end-users worldwide.

1. Major Wholesalers

Large-scale pharmaceutical wholesalers like McKesson and Cardinal Health play pivotal roles in ensuring availability across the United States, Europe, and other regions. They stock both branded Zovirax and approved generics, maintaining safety stock levels to meet fluctuating demand.

2. Regional Distributors

Localized distribution networks in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Africa involve regional distributors, often partnering with local pharmacies. These entities source from international API producers or regional API plants, integrating them into their supply chains.

Emerging Trends Impacting Suppliers

• Regulatory Harmonization and Quality Standards: Increasing global standards, including the FDA’s cGMP and EMA regulations, influence supplier selection. Suppliers meeting these standards are prioritized to mitigate supply disruptions and ensure quality.

• Generic Competition and Patent Expiry: The patent expiration of Zovirax in many markets has prompted the rise of generic manufacturers, expanding the supplier base. Companies like Teva, Sandoz (Novartis), and Mylan have gained prominence as acyclovir injectables and tablets flood the market.

• Supply Chain Resilience and Diversification: Recent disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions and the COVID-19 pandemic have incentivized pharmaceutical companies to diversify their API and finished product sources, emphasizing regional production hubs.

• Sustainable and Ethical Manufacturing: Increasing consumer and regulatory focus on environmental sustainability influences supplier selection, prioritizing firms with eco-friendly practices.

Conclusion

The supply landscape for Zovirax hinges on a multifaceted network of API producers, finished product manufacturers, and distributors. While original manufacturer GSK remains a key player, the rapid growth of Chinese and Indian API producers has diversified supply sources, often leading to cost advantages and increased market competition. The future of Zovirax supply will depend on regulatory compliance, geopolitical stability, and ongoing efforts to enhance supply chain robustness.

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Key Takeaways

• Market Dynamics: The API for Zovirax, acyclovir, is produced by a mix of established Western companies like GSK and burgeoning Chinese and Indian manufacturers, fostering competitive pricing and increased availability.

• Supply Chain Diversity: The proliferation of generic manufacturers and multiple API suppliers mitigates risks and improves supply resilience but introduces variability in quality assurance protocols.

• Regulatory Impact: Compliance with international standards is critical; suppliers with GMP certifications enjoy a competitive advantage, especially in stringent markets like North America and Europe.

• Emerging Trends: The pursuit of sustainable manufacturing practices and regionalized supply chains will influence future supplier relationships and operational strategies.

• Strategic Considerations: For healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies, establishing relationships with certified, diversified suppliers can ensure continuous access to quality acyclovir amidst fluctuating global conditions.

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FAQs

Q1: Who are the leading API suppliers for acyclovir used in Zovirax?
A1: Principal API suppliers include GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), Hubei Biocause Pharmaceutical (China), Zhejiang Hisun Pharmaceutical (China), and Indian firms like Cipla and Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories.

Q2: How has the patent expiry of Zovirax affected its supply chain?
A2: Patent expiry has led to increased generic competition, enabling numerous manufacturers to produce acyclovir, thereby broadening the supplier base and reducing prices.

Q3: What regulatory standards do API suppliers for acyclovir need to meet?
A3: Suppliers must comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) outlined by agencies like the FDA (USA) and EMA (Europe) to ensure safety, quality, and efficacy.

Q4: Are Chinese and Indian API manufacturers considered reliable sources for Zovirax?
A4: Many Chinese and Indian API manufacturers are GMP-certified and adhere to international quality standards, making them reliable options, provided proper due diligence is conducted.

Q5: What trends are influencing future Zovirax supply strategies?
A5: Trends include supply chain diversification, regulatory compliance, sustainable manufacturing practices, and regional production, all aimed at enhancing resilience and cost-effectiveness.

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References

1. GSK Official Website. (2022). Zovirax Product Details.
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023). Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Regulations.
3. Hubei Biocause Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Official Website. (2023). API Production Capabilities.
4. Zhejiang Hisun Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Reports. (2023). API Certification and Export Data.
5. Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. Annual Report. (2022). Global API Sourcing Strategies.