Acyclovir / Aciclovir
Molecule Description
It is a medication that is used to treat infections caused by certain viruses.
Uses of Acyclovir / Aciclovir
Acyclovir is used to treat viral infections like genital herpes, herpes simplex, neonatal herpes, shingles, and chickenpox.
Contraindications of Acyclovir / Aciclovir
When should one not use Acyclovir / Aciclovir
- Allergic to the medicine
- Sudden onset of kidney disease (Acute renal failure)
- Dehydration
Side effects of Acyclovir / Aciclovir
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Giddiness
- Tiredness
- Muscle or joint pains
- Visual disturbances
Precautions and Warnings of Acyclovir / Aciclovir
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Acyclovir / Aciclovir during pregnancy?
A:
The drug can be used in pregnancy only if recommended by a physician.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Acyclovir / Aciclovir while breastfeeding?
A:
It is passed onto breast milk but less likely to cause any harmful effects. Hence should be used with caution.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Acyclovir / Aciclovir?
A:
It is probably safe while driving. It does not usually affect your ability to drive.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Acyclovir / Aciclovir?
A:
No information is available on interactions of Acyclovir when taken with alcohol, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.
Mode of Action of Acyclovir / Aciclovir
How Does It Work?
It inhibits and inactivates the genetic material of the virus without affecting the normal cellular processes.
Interactions of Acyclovir / Aciclovir
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 of Acyclovir / Aciclovir
No information is available on dietary restrictions while you are taking Acyclovir, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.
Dosage of Acyclovir / Aciclovir
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
Recent articles
Disclaimer
The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.