Common Use

Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat herpes infections of the skin, lips, and genitals; herpes zoster; and chickenpox. Acyclovir cream stops viral replication but is not effective against certain virus infections, such as the common cold.

Dosage and Direction

Take Acyclovir orally with or without food or milk. The commonly recommended dose is 200 mg every 4 hours, five times a day for ten days. For recurrent herpes, the recommended dose for adults is 400 mg twice a day for one year. Washing your hands helps prevent spreading the infection to others.

Note: This information is for review purposes only. Always consult your doctor before using Acyclovir to ensure the best results.

Precautions

• Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people.
• Do not touch your eyes after touching an infected area.
• Do not use Acyclovir without a doctor's permission if you have a history of kidney or liver disease.
• Acyclovir cream should not be used during pregnancy, while trying to become pregnant, or while breastfeeding without medical advice.

Contraindications

• Acyclovir is contraindicated in patients with kidney disorders.
• It is also contraindicated in people who are hypersensitive to Zovirax, Acyclovir, or similar drugs.

Possible Side Effects

Possible side effects include allergic reactions such as hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Other potential side effects include:

• Pain in the lower back
• Reduced urination or inability to urinate
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Unusual weakness

Less serious side effects may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or stomach pain
• Headache or feeling light-headed
• Swelling in the hands or feet

If you experience any of these side effects, stop using Acyclovir and consult your doctor immediately. Inform your doctor about any unusual symptoms.

Drug Interactions

Acyclovir may interact with probenecid (Benemid), tizanidine, varicella virus vaccine, fosphenytoin, phenytoin, and valproic acid. Drug interactions do not always require stopping one of the medications, but they can affect how the drugs work. Consult your doctor to manage any potential interactions.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take double or extra doses.

Overdose

Symptoms of an Acyclovir overdose may include seizures (convulsions), hallucinations, and reduced urination or inability to urinate. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Storage

Store Acyclovir at room temperature, between 59-77°F (15-25°C), away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of Acyclovir and does not cover all directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider or doctor for specific instructions tailored to your condition. We disclaim any liability for the accuracy of this information and any consequences of self-treatment.