Description
What is this medicine for
It is used to stop or treat herpes infections. It is used to treat chickenpox.
How does it work
Acyclovir is in a class of antiviral medicines called nucleoside analogues and works to harm the virus and prevent its spread.
How should this medicine be used
Take Acyclovir exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than instructed. Do not skip any doses. Continue to take it even when you feel better. You must complete the entire course. If you dont, the infection will not clear completely. You may take Acyclovir with or without food. If you experience stomach discomfort, you may take Aciclovir after food. Drink plenty of water while being treated with Acyclovir.
Common side effects of this medicine
Headache, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, tiredness, agitation, joint pain, hair loss, and blurring
What do I do if I miss a dose
Take a missed dose as soon as you think about it. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time. Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.
What precautions should I take when taking this medicine
Alert your doctor if you ever had an allergic reaction (rashes, swollen eyes, mouth or breathlessness) to similar medicines such as famciclovir, valacyclovir, or any of the ingredients of acyclovir. If you are taking acyclovir for genital herpes, you should know that genital herpes can be spread through sexual contact even if you dont have blisters or other symptoms and possibly even if you are taking acyclovir. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.
When do I need to seek medical help
Symptoms of overdose may include agitation, seizures, extreme tiredness, loss of consciousness, swelling of hands and feet, decreased urination. Signs of a very bad reaction to the drug include wheezing, chest tightness, fever, itching, bad cough, blue or gray skin color, seizures, or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Can I take it with other medicines
Alert your doctor if you are taking any of these medicines: Gastric medicines such as cimetidine; Probenecid; Theophylline (for asthma); Diuretics (water pills – used to treat heart disease or high blood pressure; Transplant medicines such as mycophenolate mofetil, cyclosporin or tacrolimus. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Are there any food restrictions
Avoid Alcohol
How do I store this medicine
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. – Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Pregnancy Category
Category B : Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women OR Animal studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus in any trimester.
Therapeutic Classification
Antivirals, Eye Anti-Infectives & Antiseptics, Topical Antivirals
