Drug Uses

Acyclovir is a medicine used for the treatment of herpes infections on the skin, lips and genitals; herpes zoster (shingles) and chickenpox. Acyclovir cannot cure herpes infections but it may reduce the pain and itching associated with the infection and helps for the healing. In some cases the medicine is given to patients to prevent reoccurrence of the infection. Acyclovir is also used in the treatment of shingles and chickenpox infections. The medicine may also be used for other purposes that are not mentioned in this leaflet. Consult your doctor for more information about that.

How Taken

Acyclovir may be in the form of tablets or capsules that are taken orally. You should follow the instructions on the prescription. The tablets or capsules should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. The doses should be taken at regular interval with or without food. Do not take more tables than prescribed and do not take the medicine more often than instructed. Do not discontinue the usage of Acyclovir unless your doctor advised you so. Children may require special care during a treatment with Acyclovir. Discuss this issue with your doctor.

Warnings/Precautions

Patients who have renal impairment may require an adjustment of the dosage. Be cautious in case your use potentially nephrotoxic agents because their usage may enhance the risk of renal dysfunction and/ or the risk of reversible central nervous system symptoms as those reported in patients using intravenous acyclovir. Consult your doctor if you experience any side effects, in you become pregnant or plan to become pregnant or if you are breast feeding during the treatment with Acyclovir.
Treatment of herpes zoster: the treatment should start as soon as possible after a patient is diagnosed to have herpes zoster. There is not information about the treatment in individuals who have started the treatment more than 72 hours after the occurrence of the zoster rash.
Treatment of genital herpes infection: Acyclovir is not used to treat genital herpes infections.
Treatment of chickenpox: in children, chickenpox is a self-limited disease which severity is mild to moderate. In adolescents and adults the symptoms of the disease are more severe. There is no information about the treatment if it starts more than 24 hours after the occurrence of the rash.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, you should take is as soon as possible. However, if it is already time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and take the regular dose. Do not take a double dose.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects vary according to the dosage and the type of infection that is being treated. In case you experience any of the following adverse effects, contact your doctor immediately: confusion or hallucinations, increased thirst, redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth, reduced amount of urine passed, seizures, skin rash or hives, stomach pain, tremor, unusual weakness or tiredness Other less serious side effects that don’t have to be reported include: diarrhea, dizziness, headache, increased sensitivity to the sun, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting. If these adverse effects continue for a long time or if the bother you, talk to your doctor. Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): diarrhea, dizziness, headache, increased sensitivity to the sun, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting

Storage

Acyclovir should be stored at a room temperature between 15° and 25°C (59° and 77°F), away from light and moisture. The medicine should be kept away from children. Throw away any unused or outdated medicine.

Overdose

The symptoms of an overdose of Acyclovir may include agitation, coma, seizures and lethargy. Overdose has been reported after bolus injections, very high doses of the medicine or in patients whose fluid and electrolyte balance has not been properly monitored. This may cause increased BUN and serum creatinine which may lead to renal failure. Patients who experience acute renal failure and anuria should undergo hemodialysis to restore the renal function.

More Information

Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are using, including the medicines bought without prescription, herbal products and supplements. Also, inform your doctor if you consume alcohol, if you smoke or if you take illegal drugs because these substances may affect the function of Acyclovir. Consult your doctor before you start or stop any medicines. Follow the directions provided by your doctor while you are using Acyclovir.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.