Acyclovir online

Generic Name : Acyclovir

Brand name: Zovirax

Item info:

Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Acyclovir lessens the symptoms of these infections and shortens the length of time you are sick. Acyclovir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses. Illnesses caused by herpes viruses include genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chicken pox.

Drug class:

Synthetic nucleoside analogue active against herpesviruses.

Interactions:

Probenecid (Benemid) may increase the effects of acyclovir and lead to dangerous side effects. You may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking probenecid
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with acyclovir. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products

Side effects:

Stop taking acyclovir and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious side effects:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives
• little or no urine production;
• unusual bleeding or bruising.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur.
Continue to take acyclovir and talk to your doctor if you experience:

• nausea
• vomiting,
• diarrhea,
• decreased appetite,
• abdominal pain;
• a headache or lightheadedness; or
• joint pain.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Prescription needed / OTC:

RX only

Dosage:

Take acyclovir exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Treatment with acyclovir should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (e.g. tingling, burning, blisters).

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Acyclovir can be taken with or without food. Taking acyclovir with food may decrease stomach upset.

Take all of the acyclovir that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.

Lesions caused by herpes viruses should be kept as clean and dry as possible. Wearing loose clothing may help to prevent irritation of the lesions.

Contraindications:

Do not take acyclovir without first talking to your doctor if you are allergic to valacyclovir (Valtrex).

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease.

You may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.

Acyclovir is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that acyclovir is not likely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. Acyclovir passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even during treatment. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people. Wash your hands frequently to prevent transmission. Acyclovir will not prevent the spread of genital herpes. Avoid sexual intercourse or use a latex condom to prevent spreading the virus to others.

Missed dose:

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the mext dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Overdose:

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Storage:

Store acyclovir at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Herpes Medications

• Acyclovir
• Valtrex