Acyclovir

Uses

Acyclovir is used to treat infections caused by certain types of viruses. It cures cold sores around the mouth (due to herpes simplex), Shingles (due to herpes zoster), and chickenpox.

This drug is also used for the treatment of genital herpes outbreak. In people with frequent outbreaks, acyclovir is used to help reduce the number of future episodes.

Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. However, it is not a cure for these infections. Viruses that cause these infections, are also among the outbreak in the body. Acyclovir reduces the severity and length of these outbreaks. It helps to heal wounds faster, prevents new wounds from forming, and reduces pain / itchiness. This medication can help reduce the pain even after the recovery of the wounds, and for how long the pain persists. In addition, in people with weak immune systems, the Acyclovir can reduce the risk of virus spreading in other parts of the body and make serious infections.

How to use Acyclovir

Take Acyclovir from mouth or without food, usually 2 to 5 times a day guided by your doctor. Drink plenty of fluid while taking this medication unless your doctor prescribes you otherwise.

If you are using the liquid form of Acyclovir, then stir the bottle well before each dose. Measure the dosage carefully using a special measuring tool / spoon. Do not use domestic spoon because you can not get the right dose.

Acyclovir works best when it starts at the first sign of an outbreak directed by your doctor. If you delay the treatment, then it can not work too.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, dosage is also based on weight.

This drug works best when the amount of drug in your body is kept at constant level. Therefore, take this medication at intervals at equal distances. To help you remember, take it every day at the same time.

Continue to take Acyclovir until the full prescribed amount is finished. Do not change your dose, leave any dose, or stop this medicine soon without your doctor’s approval.

Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Acyclovir Side Effects

Acyclovir side effect are Nausea, diarrhea, headache, or vomiting can occur. If any of these effects is persistent or worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medicine because it has decided that your benefit is higher than the risk of side effects. Many people using this drug do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately that there is no potential but serious side effect: dizziness, drowsiness, signs of kidney problems (such as changes in urine volume, abnormal back / side pain), changes in mental / mood Movement, illusions, discrimination), weak / unstable movement, trouble talking.

This drug can rarely cause life-threatening disorders that affect blood cells, kidneys and other parts of the body. If you have conditions related to weak immune systems (such as HIV disease, bone marrow transplant, kidney transplantation), then it is more likely to be a disorder. Any of these rare but serious side effects should be prompt medical attention: extreme fatigue, slow / fast / irregular heartbeat, easy injuries / bleeding, new fever, bloody / black urine, severe stomach / stomach pain, yellow color Eyes / skin, changes in sudden sight, loss of consciousness, seizures

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, if you see any symptoms of severe allergic reactions, then immediately medical attention, including: tooth, itching / swelling (especially the face / tongue / throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing .

This is not a complete list of potential side effects. If you see other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US –

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report FDA’s side effects on 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Contact your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking acyclovir, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; Or to valacyclovir; Or if you have any other allergies. This product may have passive elements, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using Acyclovir, tell your doctor or pharmacist the conditions related to your medical history, especially: kidney problems, a weak immune system (such as HIV disease, bone marrow transplantation, kidney transplantation).

Acyclovir rarely makes you feel dizzy or sleepy. Alcohol or marijuana can make you feel more dizzy or sleepy. Do not drive, do not use machinery, or do anything that requires caution unless you can safely do it. Limit alcoholic beverages If you are using marijuana, talk to your doctor.

Before performing the surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products (including prescription drugs, non-prescription medicines and herbal products).

There is no vaccination / vaccination (such as vaccine against varicella virus) without your doctor’s consent.

Side effects of adolescent drug, especially kidney problems (changes in urine volume, changes in back / side pain, dizziness, drowsiness, and mental / mood changes (such as delusions, discrimination, loss of consciousness)

Acyclovir does not protect against the spread of genital herpes. To reduce your chances of giving your partner herpes, do not interact sexually during outbreaks or if you have symptoms. You can spread genital herpes even if you do not have symptoms. Therefore, always use an effective barrier method (latex or polyurethane condom / tooth dam) during all sexual activity. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

During pregnancy, this drug should be used only if it is clearly required. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This medication passes into breast milk. However, this drug is not likely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Interaction

Drug interactions can change how your medicines work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescriptions / non-prescription medicines and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change any drug dosage without your doctor’s approval.

Some medicines that can interact with this drug include: Other medicines that can lead to renal problems (Nonsteroid Anti-Inflammatory Drugs-NIBAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen).

Acyclovir is similar to Valacyclovir. Do not use valacyclovir-containing drugs while using Acyclovir.

Over Dose

If someone has entered a greater amount and has serious symptoms like having difficulty passing or breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call the Poison Control Center immediately. American residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents can call a provincial poison control center. Signs of high amounts can include: changes in urine volume, extreme fatigue, movement, loss of consciousness, seizures.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others.

This drug is prescribed for your current condition only. Unless your doctor tells you, do not use it for any other infection.

Missed dose

If you miss the dose, then as soon as you miss it. If it is near the next dose time, then leave the immersed dose and start your normal dose schedule again. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59-77 degrees Fahrenheit (15-25 ° C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Do not flush the medicines under the toilet or put them in the groove unless instructed to do so. When properly finished this product is discarded or it is not required. For more information about how to safely leave your product, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.