Acyclovir / Aciclovir
SHARE
Assurance
available
Regulated
Molecule Description
Acyclovir (also Aciclovir) is an antiviral medicine that belongs to a class of medicines called nucleoside analogues. It’s commonly used to treat viral infections caused by the herpes virus family, including cold sores (herpes labialis), genital herpes, shingles (herpes zoster), and chickenpox (varicella). Acyclovir helps control outbreaks and reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, though it does not completely cure the infection or prevent it from spreading to others. Acyclovir works by blocking the virus’s ability to multiply inside your body. After being absorbed, it is converted into an active form inside infected cells, where it interferes with the virus’s DNA replication. In simple terms, it “stops the virus from copying itself,” allowing your immune system to control the infection more effectively and helping sores heal faster. Common side effects include nausea, headache, dizziness, tiredness, and mild stomach upset.
Avoid alcohol while taking Acyclovir, as it may increase dizziness or dehydration. Drink plenty of fluids to protect your kidneys, especially if you’re on a higher dose or using Acyclovir long-term. If you have kidney disease, neurological conditions, or are elderly, your doctor may adjust your dose. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel dizzy or sleepy after taking it.
Uses
Acyclovir is used to treat viral infections like genital herpes, herpes simplex, neonatal herpes, shingles, and chickenpox.
Contraindications
When should one not use Acyclovir / Aciclovir
- Allergic to the medicine
- Sudden onset of kidney disease (Acute renal failure)
- Dehydration
Side effects
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Giddiness
- Tiredness
- Muscle or joint pains
- Visual disturbances
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Breast Feeding
Driving
Alcohol
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
It inhibits and inactivates the genetic material of the virus without affecting the normal cellular processes.
Interactions
Interactions with other medicines
- Medications used to treat bacterial or fungal infections including Amphotericin B, Amikacin, Gentamycin, Kanamycin, and Tobramycin
- Over the counter pain reliever
- Medicines used to treat HIV, such as Zidovudine.
Interactions with food items
Do not use this medicine at or around the time of meals. Using tobacco and alcohol, along with this drug, may cause interactions.
Dietary Restrictions
No information is available on dietary restrictions while you are taking Acyclovir, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.
Dosage
Overdose
Kidney damage, permanent nerve damage (hence adequate hydration is essential while on Acyclovir).
Missed a Dose
Take the incomprehensible dose as shortly as you bear in mind. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose, and take medicine at the next regular scheduled time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Articles
View AllDid you find this helpful?
References:
Explore More at Pharmeasy
Why trust PharmEasy?
# ONE OF INDIA'S MOST TRUSTED HEALTHCARE PLATFORM
CODAvailable
100%Genuine Medicine
30 DAYReturn Policy









