Drug Uses
Acyclovir is used to treat herpes infections of the
skin, lip, and genitals; herpes zoster (shingles); and chickenpox. It does not
cure herpes infections but decreases pain and itching and promotes healing.
Sometimes acyclovir is given to help prevent the infection from coming back.
Acyclovir also treats shingles and chickenpox infections. This medication is
sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more
information.
How Taken
Acyclovir tablets or capsules should be taken by
mouth, following the directions on the prescription label. Swallow whole with a
full glass of water. Take your doses at regular intervals, with or without
food, not more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your
prescriber or health care professional even if you think your condition is
better. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice. Special care may
be needed for use of this medicine in children, contact your pediatrician or
health professional.
Warnings/Precautions
Patients with renal impairment need dosage
adjustments. Caution should also be exercised to 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). Patients should
consult with their physician if any adverse reactions occurs, also if they
become pregnant or intend to become pregnant, they intend to breastfeed while taking
orally administered Acyclovir, or they have any other questions.
Herpes Zoster: There are no data on treatment
initiated more than 72 hours after onset of the zoster rash. Patients should be
advised to initiate treatment as soon as possible after a diagnosis of herpes
zoster.
Genital Herpes Infections: Acyclovir is not a cure
for genital herpes.
Chickenpox: Chickenpox in otherwise healthy
children is usually a self-limited disease of mild to moderate severity.
Adolescents and adults tend to have more severe disease. Treatment was
initiated within 24 hours of the typical chickenpox rash in the controlled
studies, and there is no information regarding the effects of treatment begun
later in the disease course.
Missed Dose
In case you miss a dose, take it as soon as you
can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take
double or extra doses.
Possible
Side Effects
Side effects depend upon the dose you are taking
and the infection being treated. These side effects you should report to your
prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible: 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 Side
effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your
prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
diarrhea, dizziness, headache, increased sensitivity to the sun, loss of
appetite, nausea, vomiting
Storage
Store at room temperature between 15° and 25°C (59°
and 77°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Overdose
Agitation, coma, seizures, and lethargy may occur
in association with overdosage. Overdosage has been reported following bolus
injections or inappropriately high doses and in patients whose fluid and
electrolyte balance were not properly monitored. This has resulted in elevated
BUN and serum creatinine and subsequent renal failure. In the event of acute
renal failure and anuria, the patient may benefit from hemodialysis until renal
function is restored
More
Information
Tell your prescriber or health care professional
about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines,
nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or
health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or
alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way
your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping
or starting any of your medicines. Follow the directions for using Acyclovir
provided by your doctor.
Disclaimer
This drug information is for your information
purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses,
directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your
medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for
any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for
any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and
reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use
of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or
property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either
expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.
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