Acyclovir (a-CY-clo-veer) is an antiviral agent used to treat infections such as herpes simplex (HSV-1 and HSV-2)
infections, herpes zoster (shingles) and varicella (chickenpox). HSV causes small, fluid-filled blisters which break down
into ulcers/sores which may be itchy or painful. These blisters contain many infectious HSV particles. Acyclovir helps
stop the virus from spreading, reduces the number of painful blisters and also helps them to heal more quickly. If you
start taking acyclovir as soon as you feel an episode starting, it may be possible to actually prevent the blisters from developing. It may also be used in the prevention of recurrences of genital herpes.
HOW should this drug be taken ?
Acyclovir is available as 200 mg, 400 mg, and 800 mg tablets, as well as a banana-flavoured liquid. The recommended
dose of acyclovir will depend on the reason your doctor has prescribed the medicine.
The recommended dose used to treat a first episode of genital herpes is 200 mg five times a day for 10 days. Therapy
should be started as early as possible following onset of signs and symptoms. The recommended dose to prevent
recurrent infections is 200 mg three times daily. This may be increased if necessary, in order to prevent the virus from multiplying.
You may take acyclovir with or without food. Swallow each caplet whole with water. Do not chew it. It is important to finish all the caplets you have been given even if you start to feel better.
To help with the management of genital herpes, there is also a cream and ointment available. It is applied to the affected
area 4-6 times daily for up to 10 days. It should be applied adequately to cover all lesions. A finger cot or rubber glove
should be used when applying it in order to prevent spreading of the virus to other body sites or infecting someone else. It should not be used in the eye or other mucous membranes.
What should you do if you FORGET a dose ?
If you miss a dose of acyclovir take it as soon as possible, then just carry on with your regular dosing schedule. If you
remember your missed dose close to the time for your next dose (ie. within 2 hours), do not double your dose. Continue with your regular dosing schedule.
What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause? What should you do about them?
Acyclovir is generally well tolerated. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, or headache may occur. If these effects occur
and are bothersome, let your doctor or pharmacist know. Call your doctor immediately if you experience side effects
such as unusual bruising or bleeding or if you think you have an allergic reaction (ie. rash) to acyclovir.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR REGULAR DOCTOR'S APPOINTMENTS, SO THAT YOUR PROGRESS
CAN BE ASSESSED.
What other precautions should you follow while using this drug ?
Herpes infections cause painful blisters of the skin. The fluid in these blisters contains the virus which causes the
disease. The infections can be easily spread to you or other people. If you touch your skin sores, wash your hands immediately afterwards. Avoid intimate contact with others when the disease is visible.
Let your doctor know if you have had an allergic reaction or serious side effect to other antiviral agents such as valacyclovir, famciclovir or ganciclovir.
Acyclovir may interact with other drugs. It is important to let your doctor or pharmacist know about other drugs you are
taking, even medications which you can buy without a prescription. It is especially important to let them know if you are taking probenecid (Benemid̉) before starting acyclovir.
Since acyclovir is removed from the body by your kidneys, it is important to inform your doctor if you have kidney disease
prior to taking this medicine. Also tell your doctor if you have HIV, AIDS, or any kind of bone marrow disease.
The safety of acyclovir has not been established during pregnancy or breast feeding. Please discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist if this is a concern.
How should this medication be STORED?
Acyclovir should be stored at room temperature (15-30° C) in a dry place and protected from light. Do not store in the
bathroom, as heat and moisture may cause the medication to lose its effectiveness. Keep this drug safely away from children.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THIS MEDICATION, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOU PHARMACIST, NURSE, OR DOCTOR.
PLEASE WRITE DOWN YOUR QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS TO ENSURE THEY ARE ADDRESSED.
A pharmacist at ___________________ is available to answer questions
The telephone number is ___________ Please ask for ____________________.
