We usually hear about the uses and benefits of Acyclovir. Here we tell you all the details.
Index
Acyclovir – What is it
Acyclovir (ACV), is an antiviral drug. It is used primarily to treat herpes simplex virus infections, chicken pox, and shingles. Other uses include preventing cytomegalovirus infections after transplantation and serious complications from Epstein-Barr virus infection. It can be taken by mouth, applied as a cream, or injected.
Common side effects include nausea and diarrhea. Potentially serious side effects include kidney problems and low platelets. Greater care is recommended in those with impaired liver or kidney function.
Acyclovir – Uses
Acyclovir is used to treat infections caused by certain types of viruses. Treats cold sores around the mouth (caused by herpes simplex), shingles (caused by shingles), and chickenpox.
This medication is also used to treat genital herpes outbreaks. Acyclovir is an antiviral medicine. However, it is not a cure for these infections. The viruses that cause these infections continue to live in the body even between outbreaks. Acyclovir decreases the severity and duration of these flare-ups. Helps sores heal faster, prevents new sores from forming, and decreases pain / itching. This medicine can also help reduce the duration of pain after the sores heal.
Acyclovir – Administration
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 medicine, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
Carefully measure the dose with a special measuring device / spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. This medicine works best when it starts at the first sign of a flare, as directed by your doctor. It may not work as well if you delay treatment.
The dose is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, the dosage is also based on weight. This medicine works best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this medicine at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same time every day.
Continue taking this medication until the prescribed amount is completed. Do not change your dose, skip any doses, or stop this medication prematurely without your doctor’s approval.
Acyclovir – Side Effects
It can cause nausea, diarrhea, headache, or vomiting. If any of these effects persist or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medicine for you because he or she has determined that the benefit to you outweighs the risk of side effects. Many people using this medicine do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any of these unlikely but serious side effects: dizziness, drowsiness, signs of kidney problems (such as a change in the amount of urine, unusual back / side pain), mental / mood changes ( as agitation). , confusion, hallucinations), shaky / unsteady movement, slurred speech.
In rare cases, it can affect blood cells, kidneys, and other parts of the body. It can occur with conditions related to a weakened immune system (such as HIV disease, bone marrow transplant, or kidney transplant). Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these rare but serious side effects: extreme tiredness, slow / fast / irregular heartbeat, easy bruising / bleeding, new fever, bloody / dark urine, severe stomach / abdominal pain, eyes / yellowish skin, sudden vision changes, loss of consciousness, seizures.
Acyclovir – Precautions
Before taking acyclovir, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to valacyclovir; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
Before using this medicine, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, conditions related to a weakened immune system (such as HIV disease, bone marrow transplant, kidney transplant).
This medicine can rarely make you dizzy or sleepy. Alcohol or marijuana can make you dizzy or sleepy. Don’t drive, use machinery, or do anything that requires alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.
Before having surgery, advise everything you wear. You do not have certain immunizations / shots (such as chickenpox vaccine) without your doctor’s consent. Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of the medicine, especially kidney problems (change in the amount of urine, back / side pain), dizziness, and mental changes that may include mood changes such as confusion, hallucinations, loss of awareness.
Acyclovir does not protect against the spread of genital herpes. Therefore, always use an effective barrier method (latex or polyurethane condoms / dental dams) during all sexual activity. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
During pregnancy, this drug should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medicine passes into breast milk. However, this medicine is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Dr. Samantha Robson ( CRN: 0510146-5) is a nutritionist and website content reviewer related to her area of expertise. With a postgraduate degree in Nutrition from The University of Arizona, she is a specialist in Sports Nutrition from Oxford University and is also a member of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.