Drug Uses

Acyclovir is a treatment in herpes infections of the skin, lip, and genitals, shingles and chickenpox. It is not a cure, but a promoter, that helps in healing and decreases itching and pain. It is formulated either for topical usage or as a tablets. Tablets are decreasing the frequency and severity of sores, but it may have serious adverse effects. Sometimes it is also prescribed for other uses.

How Taken

Topical treatment with Acyclovir should begin as soon as possible after first appearance of symptoms, such as tingling or burning. After application your hands need to be washed. When applying you should wear a glove or use applicator, to avoid spreading virus to other body parts or other people. Lesions should be covered entirely, and when treating all of the volume of Acyclovir should be used, before end of the treatment. During treatment you should wear loose clothing to avoid irritation of the lesions.

Warnings/Precautions

If you have other medical conditions or use any other medications you should notify your doctor before starting treatment with Acyclovir topical. It's unknown if Acyclovir can harm an unborn baby, so if you are pregnant you should let your doctor know about it. This medication passes into breast milk, so your doctor need to be also notified if breast feeding a baby.

Missed Dose

Missed dose should be applied as soon as you remember, however not in the case when it's about time for next dose. In such case miss the dose and continue to apply Acyclovir as scheduled.

Possible Side Effects

If you encounter some allergic reaction when using Acyclovir you should notify your doctor. You may eventually experience itching, stinging, burning or a rash. These aren't serious side effects, but your doctor need to be notified about these, also when experiencing other bothersome side effects.

Storage

Don't freeze Acyclovir, store it under 25°C (77°F).

Overdose

When suspecting overdose of Acyclovir call your local poison control center or emergency room for advice. There are no serious side effects of overdose.

More Information

This medication shouldn't be used with patients that are allergic to it or propylene glycol. It is most effective when treatment started within 48 hours from the beginning of rash. Directions given by your doctor need to be followed carefully.

Disclaimer

Information presented on this page is for informational purposes only. This information doesn't cover all interactions, precautions or adverse effects of treatment with this medicament. We disclaim all responsibility for any consequences, which may arise while taking this drug without proper consultation with doctor or pharmacist. We give no warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.