Acyclovir

What is acyclovir?

As an antiviral medication, acyclovir is meant to slow down the spread of the herpes virus and to help the body overcome the infection. Though acyclovir doesn't cure the infection, it contributes to the decrease of its harmful symptoms.

Acyclovir is effective for herpes infection treatment. It is usually applied to such illnesses as chicken pox, genital herpes, shingles and cold sores.

The drug can also be used for other purposes than those listed above.

What is the most important information I should know about acyclovir?

Keep in mind that the symptoms of infection may disappear very soon, but you shouldn't stop taking the drug following the whole course of treatment. The absence of symptoms doesn't mean that the infection is eliminated.

You should start treatment with acyclovir as soon as you notice the infection symptoms, such as blisters, tingling or burning.

Remember that herpes infections are contagious and, even if you take acyclovir, people around you can get infected. Ensure that the infected areas never come into contact with other people. Do not touch your eyes after touching the infected area. You should also wash your hands on a regular basis so that your infection can't pass to people around you.

You should keep from using this drug if you are allergic to acyclovir or valacyclovir (e.g. Valtrex). If you suffer from kidney disease or have an allergy, you should discuss it with your health care provider beforehand. You are likely to have a special dosage adjustment and to pass medical test during treatment with acyclovir.

FDA pregnancy category B. Acyclovir isn't expected to be dangerous for a fetus. You should consult with your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become one. Keep in mind that genital herpes can pass from an infected woman to her child during childbirth, so make sure you have taken all measure to prevent your baby from getting infected. Remember that acyclovir may appear in breast milk, so, in case you are currently breastfeeding a baby, avoid taking this medication.

How should I take acyclovir?

Take the drug with a glass of water. It is especially important to drink much water when you are under acyclovir treatment, as the lack of liquid may be harmful for your kidneys.

You can use acyclovir with or without food. If you want to prevent stomach upset, take the drug while having meals.

Before the dose is measured, you should shake the oral suspend properly. Use a medical cup or a special marked measuring spoon to be sure that you take the recommended dose. Acyclovir has to be used for the entire length of time; never stop taking it before the course of treatment is over. Even if you don't notice any symptoms of infection anymore, you should proceed with taking the drug.

Remember that acyclovir can't help treat viral infections like flu and cold.

Store the drug at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose of acyclovir asap. Do not double the dose to catch up.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek immediate medical help if overdose is suspected. The common symptoms include hallucinations, seizure and urinating less than usual.