Acyclovir
Acyclovir is an antiviral drug that is used to treat symptoms of shingles, chickenpox, cold sores and genital herpes which are all caused by herpes viruses. It is also used to prevent having regular outbreaks of genital herpes. Acyclovir will not get rid of the virus infection but does help sores heal faster and helps with pain relief.
Introduction
Generic name: Acyclovir (oral)
Brand names: Sitavig, Zovirax
Drug class: Purine nucleosides
Storage : Store below 30°C
Uses
Herpes Simplex Virus Infections
Chickenpox
Herpes labialis
Shingles
Genital herpes infection
Benefits
Acivir 400 DT Tablet is an antiviral medicine.
It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus in the body.
It will not cure herpes and neither it prevents passing on the infection to others.
However, it can speed up healing of the sores and decrease the symptoms such as tingling, pain, burning, itching. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to get maximum benefit.
Directions for use
Take acyclovir exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets.
Start taking acyclovir as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.
Do not crush, chew, suck on, or swallow a buccal tablet. Place the flat side of the tablet against your upper gum, on the same side of the mouth as your cold sore. Allow the tablet to dissolve in your mouth throughout the day. You may eat and drink normally while the buccal tablet is in place.
Do not give an acyclovir buccal tablet to a young child or choking could occur.
Shake the oral suspension (liquid) before you measure a dose. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
Acyclovir doses are based on weight (especially in children and teenagers). Your dose needs may change if you gain or lose weight.
Drink plenty of water while you are taking this medicine to keep your kidneys working properly.
Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses may increase the risk of your virus becoming resistant to medication.
How it works?
Acivir 400 DT Tablet is an antiviral medication. It prevents the multiplication of virus in human cells. This stops the virus from producing new viruses and clears up your infection.
Side effects
Call your doctor at once if you have:
Easy bruising or bleeding, purple or red pinpoint spots under your skin
Changes in behavior
Confusion, hallucinations
Signs of a kidney problem - little or no urinating; painful or difficult urination; swelling in your feet or ankles; feeling tired or short of breath.
Common acyclovir side effects may include the following
Mild skin pain
Rash, itching
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Headache
Warnings
Take acyclovir for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated.
Treatment with acyclovir should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).
Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with acyclovir. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people.
Avoid touching an infected area and then touching your eyes. Wash your hands frequently to prevent passing the infection to others.
What drugs will affect acyclovir?
Acyclovir can harm your kidneys, especially if you also use certain medicines for infections, cancer, osteoporosis, organ transplant rejection, bowel disorders, high blood pressure, or pain or arthritis (including Advil, Motrin, and Aleve).
Other drugs may interact with acyclovir, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.