Acyclovir
Generic Name: Acyclovir (oral)
Brand Names: Sitavig, Zovirax
Introduction
Acyclovir
is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus in the
body. It will not cure herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection.
Uses
Acyclovir
is used to treat infections caused by certain types of viruses. It treats cold
sores around the mouth (caused by herpes simplex), shingles (caused by herpes
zoster), and chickenpox.
This
medication is also used to treat outbreaks of genital herpes. In people with
frequent outbreaks, acyclovir is used to help reduce the number of future
episodes.
Acyclovir
is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, such as genital herpes,
cold sores, shingles, and chicken pox.
Acyclovir
may also be used for purposes.
How to use Acyclovir?
Take
this medication by mouth with or without food, usually 2 to 5 times a day as
directed by your doctor. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication
unless your doctor directs you otherwise.
Side effects
Your
doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the
benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this
medication do not have serious side effects.
Nausea,
diarrhea, headache, or vomiting may occur. If any of these effects persist or
worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Check
with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while
taking acyclovir:
Less
common
Canker
sores
Pain
in the gums
Sores,
ulcers, or white spots on the tongue or inside the mouth
Some
side effects of acyclovir may occur that usually do not need medical attention.
These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the
medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about
ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health
care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are
bothersome or if you have any questions.
Allergic reaction
A
very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. Seek immediate medical attention
if you notice any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction:
rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe
dizziness, trouble breathing.
Drug Precautions
You
should not take this medicine if you are allergic to acyclovir or valacyclovir
(Valtrex). You should not take acyclovir buccal tablets (Sitavig) if you are
allergic to milk proteins.
To
make sure acyclovir is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
Kidney
disease
A
weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine).
Acyclovir
is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or
plan to become pregnant during treatment.
Herpes
can be passed to your baby during childbirth if you have a genital lesion when
your baby is born. If you have genital herpes, it is very important to prevent
herpes lesions during pregnancy. Take your medicine as directed to best control
your infection.
Acyclovir
passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Do not take this
medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Drug Interactions
Drug
interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for
serious side effects.
Some
products that may interact with this drug include: other drugs that may cause
kidney problems (including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs-NSAIDs such as
ibuprofen, naproxen).
Acyclovir
is very similar to valacyclovir. Do not use medications containing valacyclovir
while using acyclovir.
Drug Overdose/Misses dose
If
someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble
breathing, call EMERGENCY.
Symptoms
of overdose may include: change in the amount of urine, extreme tiredness,
agitation, loss of consciousness, seizures.
If
you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the
next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not
double the dose to catch up.
WARNING
Information
provided here is only for education and awareness purpose, Its not a medical
advice. Follow your doctor’s instructions strictly and read information leaflet
by manufacturer carefully.
