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| Acyclovir |
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Drug Uses -
Acyclovir treats herpes infections of the skin, lip, and genitals; herpes zoster (shingles); and chickenpox. Acyclovir only decreases pain and itching and promotes healing. It does not cure herpes infections fully. In some cases Acyclovir is taken in order to prevent the repeated infection. Acyclovir also treats shingles and chickenpox infections.
How Taken -
Acyclovir tablets are to be taken orally with or without food. It is necessary to drink a full glass of water with a tablet. You should take doses regularly. Do not stop taking Acyclovir until your doctor says to do so. If a child has to take Acyclovir, consult with your pediatrician.
Warnings/Precautions -
Patients with renal impairment and patients receiving potentially nephrotoxic agents (this may increase the risk of renal dysfunction and/or the risk of reversible central nervous system symptoms such as those that have been reported in patients treated with intravenous acyclovir) need dosage adjustments. If any unfavorable reaction happens, you should consult with a doctor. You should also contact a doctor if you become pregnant or intend to become pregnant, to breastfeed while taking orally administered Acyclovir.
Herpes Zoster: It is not known how to treat herpes zoster after more than 72 hours after beginning of the zoster rash. The treatment should be prescribed just after herpes zoster is diagnosed.
Genital Herpes Infections: Acyclovir is not used to treat genital herpes.
Chickenpox: Children usually experience a self-limited disease of mild to moderate severity. Treatment of adolescents and adults must be initiated 24 hours of the typical chickenpox rash in the controlled studies.
Missed Dose -
You should take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Nevertheless, if it is near to the time for your next dose, do not take an extra tablet to catch up for the dose you forgot. Do not take a double dose.
Possible Side Effects -
You should consult with your doctor in case if you experience confusion or hallucinations, increased thirst, redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth, reduced amount of urine passed, seizures, skin rash or hives, stomach pain, tremor, unusual weakness or tiredness. These side effects depend on the infection being treated and the dose you are taking. Diarrhea, dizziness, headache, increased sensitivity to the sun, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting does not require attention, but if such side effect continue or becomes bothersome, you should better consult with your doctor.
Storage -
Store Acyclovir at 15-25°C (59-77°F) in a dry place and out of direct sunlight. It must be kept out of the reach of children.
Overdose -
The Acyclovir overdose needs emergency. The typical signs of overdosage are agitation, coma, seizures, and lethargy. It is known that overdosage is followed by bolus injections or inappropriately high doses and in patients whose fluid and electrolyte balance were monitored improperly. This results in elevated BUN and serum creatinine and subsequent renal failure.
More Information -
Tell your doctor if you are taking any medicines, if you smoke, if you take drinks with caffeine or alcohol or take illegal drugs. All these may effect on treatment. Consult with your doctor before taking any of medicines. Follow the prescription for taking Acyclovir.
Disclaimer -
This is not complete information about this drug. It does not cover all aspects of Acyclovir usage. This data should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be used for any particular patient. We point out reliability of this information and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse after-effects to persons, however such damages or sequels arise. No warranty is made in regards to this information.
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