Uses of Acyclovir

Acyclovir is used to treat viral infection such as herpes simplex infection, genital herpes, chicken pox, shingles and cold sores. It is also used to prevent recurrent attacks and herpes infections in people with low immunity.

Therapeutic Category

Acyclovir: Antivirals

How Acyclovir works

Acyclovir acts against the growth of viruses (herpes virus). It works by stopping the spread of the herpes virus in the body. It also suppresses the virus's ability to infect and multiply in the cells, inhibits molecular interactions and functions needed by the virus to produce new copies of itself.

Common side effects of Acyclovir

• headache
• dizziness
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• stomach pain
• feeling tired
• fever
• allergic reactions such as rashes, itchy, sensitivity to light
• swelling, redness, tenderness or pain at the site of injection
• elevated liver enzymes
• increase in blood urea and creatinine

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• serious allergic reaction
• signs of liver problems like hepatitis, hyperbilirubinemia, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes)
• encephalopathy changes characterized by lethargy, obtundation, tremors, confusion, hallucinations, agitation or seizures 

Health Tips for Acyclovir

• Take Acyclovir exactly as instructed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or stop taking the medication without discussing it with your doctor
• Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids such as water or electrolytes
• To prevent the spread of herpes or other viral infections, maintain good personal hygiene practices
• Avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking Acyclovir, as it may increase the risk of certain side effects
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle such as balanced diet, reduce stress, engaging in regular exercise, while taking this medicine
• Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or planning for pregnancy or breast feeding