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What is Acyclovir
 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.
Acyclovir
may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this
medication guide.
General medical information about Acyclovir
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.
Treatment with Acyclovir should be started as soon
as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (e.g. tingling,
burning, blisters).
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.
What you should find out before taking Acyclovir 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.
How should take Acyclovir 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.
Shake
the suspension well before measuring a dose. To ensure that
you get a correct dose, measure the suspension with a special
dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon.
If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist
where you can get one.
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.
Store Acyclovir at room temperature away from moisture
and heat.
If you miss a dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However,
if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose,
skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed.
Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise
directed by your doctor.
What happens if you overdose: Seek emergency medical attention.
Symptoms
of an Acyclovir overdose include seizures, hallucinations,
and kidney damage (decreased urine production).
Avoid while taking Acyclovir 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.
Possible side effects of Acyclovir 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; or
- 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, or 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.
What other drugs will affect Acyclovir 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. |
