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Acyclovir is a prescription medicine. It is typically used for the treatment of Herpes, Shingles, Cold Sores. The alternative uses of Acyclovir have also been explained below.
Medical history of the patient along with age and gender determines the dosage of Acyclovir. Individual symptoms and route of administration also determines the right dosage. This information has been provided in detail in the dosage section.
Apart from the aforementioned side effects, Acyclovir can also lead to other problems, which have been listed below. Usually, these side effects of Acyclovir go away soon, and do not persist beyond the duration of the treatment. If, however, they worsen or do not go away, please speak with your physician.
Furthermore, you should know that effect of Acyclovir is Safe for pregnant women and Mild for women who are breastfeeding. Warnings related to Acyclovir's effects on the liver, heart and kidney, if any, have been listed below.
Acyclovir can cause adverse effects in certain medical conditions. It is strongly recommended to avoid Acyclovir in conditions like Kidney Disease. Other conditions have been mentioned below in the Acyclovir contraindications section.
Drug interactions for Acyclovir have been reported in the medical literature. See below for a complete list.
You should also be aware that Acyclovir is safe while driving, and is addiction.
Acyclovir is used to treat the following -
Main Benefits
Other Benefits
This is the usual dosage recommended in most common treatment cases. Please remember that every patient and their case is different, so the dosage can be different based on the disease, route of administration, patient's age and medical history.
Find the right dosage based on disease and age
Age Group | Dosage |
Is the use of Acyclovir safe for pregnant women?
There are no side effects of Acyclovir in pregnant women.
Is the use of Acyclovir safe during breastfeeding?
Side effects of Acyclovir on breastfeeding women are very mild.
What is the effect of Acyclovir on the Kidneys?
Acyclovir rarely affects the kidneys.
What is the effect of Acyclovir on the Liver?
Acyclovir is rarely harmful for the liver.
What is the effect of Acyclovir on the Heart?
Acyclovir has very mild side effects on the heart.
Acyclovir should not be taken with following medicines due to severe side effects it may cause to patients -
Severe
Moderate
If you are suffering from any of the following diseases, you should not take Acyclovir unless your doctor advises you to do so -
Is this Acyclovir habit forming or addictive?
Acyclovir is not addictive in nature.
Is it safe to drive or operate heavy machinery when consuming?
Yes, it is safe to do these activities or work after taking Acyclovir as it does not make you drowsy.
Is it safe?
There are no side effects of Acyclovir, so it is safe for use.
Is it able to treat mental disorders?
No, Acyclovir is not used to treat mental disorders.
Interaction between Food and Acyclovir
Taking Acyclovir with food is safe.
Interaction between Alcohol and Acyclovir
Drinking alcohol while taking Acyclovir may lead to slight side effects. If you experience any side effects, contact your doctor.
Take Acyclovir as directed by your doctor. Do not take this medicine longer than prescribed to avoid unpleasant side effects.
Acyclovir should be taken by mouth 1 - 2 times in a day or as advised by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food but it is preferred to take with a meal to avoid stomach upset. The topical cream should be applied gently on the affected area 5 - 6 times in a day or as advised by your doctor. After applying Acyclovir, gently rub the cream till fully absorbed, then wash your hands. Precautions must be taken in patients with neurological abnormalities, and improper liver or kidney function.
Acyclovir contains acyclovir. It works by preventing the DNA synthesis and replication of the virus. It interferes with DNA polymerase enzyme which is essential for the virus to synthesize DNA that helps in replicating the virus. In this way Acyclovir ensures eradication of viral infection from the body.
No, Acyclovir does not prevent the transmission of herpes simplex virus type-2 (HSV-2) in patients who are immunocompromised (weak immune system). Clinical studies have shown that it is not effective in preventing the transmission of herpes. Hence, you are recommended to use barrier methods such as a condom during intercourse to prevent the transmission of herpes.
No, Acyclovir does not prevent chickenpox. Clinical studies suggest that Acyclovir alone cannot prevent chickenpox caused by varicella-zoster virus (VZV) in immunocompromised patients (weak immune system) but Acyclovir can successfully treat chickenpox with the combination of other antiviral drugs.
This medicine data has been created by -
B.Pharma, Pharmacy
5 Years of Experience
References
KD Tripathi. [link]. Seventh Edition. New Delhi, India: Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers; 2013: Page No 798-800
US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [Internet]. Maryland. USA; Package leaflet information for the user; Zovirax® (acyclovir)