Acyclovir

Typical Brand Name(s): Zovirax, Alti-Acyclovir, Avirax

What Is It Used For?
Acyclovir is used to treat shingles as well as herpes simplex virus and other types of herpes virus infections which can cause painful blisters and lesions. Acyclovir reduces the severity of outbreaks and prevents the development of new blisters.

How Is It Used?
Take acyclovir exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

For prevention of recurrent outbreaks of genital herpes infections: Adults and children 12 years of age and older-200 to 400 mg two to five times a day for five days or up to twelve months, depending on how often your outbreaks of infection occur. Children up to 12 years of age-Use and dose must be determined by the doctor.

For treatment of chickenpox: Adults and children who weigh over 88 pounds (40 kilograms)-800 mg four times a day for five days. Children 2 years of age and older and weighing 88 pounds (40 kilograms) or less-Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by the doctor. The usual dose is 20 mg per kilogram (kg) of body weight, up to 800 mg, four times a day for five days. Children up to 2 years of age-Use and dose must be determined by the doctor.

For treatment of shingles: Adults and children 12 years of age and older-800 mg five times a day for seven to ten days. Children up to 12 years of age-Use and dose must be determined by the doctor.

Acyclovir is best taken with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.

Are There Possible Side Effects?
Although side effects from acyclovir are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: burning, stinging, itching, or rash when ointment is applied; headache; upset stomach; vomiting; diarrhea or loose stools.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking acyclovir,tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acyclovir, valacyclovir (Valtrex), or any other drugs. Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease, problems with your immune system, human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV), or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking acyclovir, call your doctor.

What About Interactions With Other Drugs?
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to acyclovir, ganciclovir, or valacyclovir. Also tell your health care professional if you are allergic to any other substances, such as foods, sulfites or other preservatives, or dyes. Tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially probenecid (Benemid), zidovudine (Retrovir, AZT), and vitamins.

NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.