Acyclovir

Acyclovir Uses

Oral acyclovir is used to treat initial genital herpes infections and to treat patients with recurring (6 episodes or more per year) severe genital herpes. Acyclovir reduces the pain and the number of lesions, and decreases the frequency and severity in those who have recurrent infections. In the treatment of shingles, acyclovir reduces pain, shrinks healing time, and limits the spread of the virus and formation of new lesions. Acyclovir can be used to treat chicken pox and reduces healing time, decreases the number of lesions, and reduces fever if used within the first twenty-four hours after the onset of the virus.

How Taken

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it longer than recommended by your health care professional. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Treatment with acyclovir should start soon after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters). Take each dose with a full glass of water. Drink plenty of water while you are taking acyclovir to keep your kidneys working properly. Acyclovir can be taken with or without food. Taking acyclovir with food may decrease stomach aggrevation. Take this medication the entire length of time prescribed by your health care professional. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely gone. Acyclovir can't treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu. Lesions caused by herpes viruses should be kept as clean and dry as possible. Wearing loose clothing may help to prevent irritation to the lesions.

Acyclovir Warnings

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease and patients should avoid intercourse when they show visible lesions. Resistance to acyclovir can develop with overuse. Therefore, acyclovir should be used only for severe cases and only as long as neccessary. Long term suppression for recurring genital herpes should include periodic reevaluations and trials without the drug or intermittent short term treatments with the drug.

Acyclovir Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it and take any remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dose schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

Acyclovir Possible Side Effects

Rare side effects in patients that received short-term treatment with acyclovir are nausea, vomiting, and headache. Long-term treatment has the additional potential for rash and diarrhea.

Acyclovir Storage

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach from children. Store at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of the medication.

Acyclovir Overdose

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Symptoms of an acyclovir overdose may include seizure, hallucinations, and urinating less than usual or not at all.

More Information on Acyclovir

Your pharmacist has more information about acyclovir written for health care providers.

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.