ACYCLOVIR
10 Jun 2019
Generic Name : ACYCLOVIR
ABSTRACT –
Acyclovir is an antiviral drug that slows the development and infestation of the herpes simplex virus in the body. It reduces the symptoms that come with herpes, such as chicken pox, genital herpes, genital warts, shingles and cold sores. Acyclovir is prescribed as soon as the symptoms of herpes show up, as it impedes the spreading of the virus and reduces the occurrence of symptoms. Hence, it is an active ingredient in prescription drugs such as Zovirax and Herpex.
DOSAGE –
- Acyclovir has to be taken as directed by the doctors.
- Each dose to be taken with one full glass of water.
- For buccal tablets of Acyclovir, patient must place the tablet over the upper gum, behind the lip on the same side of the cold sore and continue with daily activities as the tablet disintegrates in the mouth throughout the day.
- Continue Acyclovir until termination of course duration even when the targeted symptoms die out.
- General Dosage –
Tablet – 400mg, 800mg
Oral suspension – 200mg/5mL
SIDE EFFECTS –
Diagnosis is usually recommended to –
- Headache
- Oral pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Phlebitis
- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness
- Abdominal pains
RARE SIDE EFFECTS:
(These symptoms may prove an allergic reaction to the drug.)
- Lower back pain
- Blood clots
- Disorientation
- Exhaustion
- Quick to be bruised
- Abnormal change in urine discharge
- Allergic reactions – breathing difficulties, swelling of facial areas, hives
DRUG INTERACTIONS –
- Abreva
- Ibuprofen
- Aspirin
- Ambien
- Benadryl
- Cephalexin
- Citalopram
- Cymbalta
- Naproxem
- Protonix
- Probenecid
- Valacyclovir
- Xanax
MILD INTERACTIONS OF ACYCLOVIR ARE:
- defovir
- Cyclosporine
- Entecavir
- Ifosfamide
- Meperidine
- Olsalazine
- Plazomicine
- Ramelteon
- Trospium
Acyclovir has moderate interactions with 22 different drugs.
PRECAUTIONS –
- During course, infected areas must be kept clean and secure to avoid an outbreak or transmission. Even after the termination of symptom occurrences, these areas must continuously be kept clean and safe until advised otherwise.
- Do not brush your teeth or wear dentures while on course with the buccal tablet.
- Patients with kidney conditions or other sexually transmitted illnesses (as well as organ transplants) must notify the doctor of their medical history beforehand.
- Pregnant or nursing women must consult the doctor before taking Acyclovir. This drug can be transferred through breast milk
WARNINGS –
- Allergic reactions to Acyclovir or Valacyclovir must be notified beforehand.
- Acyclovir does not cure herpes. Patient must take care to have safe intercourse and prevent spreading of disease.
- Contact a medical authority as soon as signs of kidney problems are observed – significant change in urine discharge, swelling in feet or ankles, exhaustion, shortness of breath and even red spots occurring under skin.
- Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.