Acyclovir / Aciclovir

Description

It is a medication that is used to treat infections caused by certain viruses.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

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

Can I take Acyclovir / Aciclovir during pregnancy?

The drug can be used in pregnancy only if recommended by a physician.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Acyclovir / Aciclovir while breastfeeding?

It is passed onto breast milk but less likely to cause any harmful effects. Hence should be used with caution.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Acyclovir / Aciclovir?

It is probably safe while driving. It does not usually affect your ability to drive.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Acyclovir / Aciclovir?

No information is available on interactions of Acyclovir when taken with alcohol, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.

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)

Q: Will Acyclovir help to treat herpes?

A: It is very likely to help treat herpes infection. In the case of Acyclovir resistant strains, treatment with other drugs may be mandatory.

Q: Is it possible to smear Acyclovir in the mouth?

A: Acyclovir should not be smeared in the mouth, as it can cause local inflammatory reactions with the mucosa or more severe complications.

References

Last Updated on: 24 Dec 2020 | 01:48 PM (IST)

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