Acivir, a prescription drug, is manufactured in various forms such as Cream,Infusion,Tablet,Injection,Drops,Ointment. It is typically used for the treatment of Herpes, Shingles, Cold Sores. Acivir also has some secondary and off-label uses. These are listed below.
The right dosage of Acivir depends on the age, gender, and medical history of the patient. The condition it has been prescribed for, and the route of administration also determine the right dosage. For detailed information on this, read through the dosage section.
Some other side effects of Acivir have been listed ahead. Usually, these side effects of Acivir go away soon, and do not persist beyond the duration of the treatment. Please speak with your doctor if these side effects worsen or persist for a longer duration.
Furthermore, you should know that effect of Acivir is Safe for pregnant women and Mild for women who are breastfeeding. Warnings related to Acivir's effects on the liver, heart and kidney, if any, have been listed below.
Acivir is not recommended if you suffer from certain medical conditions as it can have adverse effects. Kidney Disease are examples of such conditions. Other conditions have been mentioned below in the Acivir contraindications section.
Besides this, Acivir may also have severe interaction with some medicines. Refer to the list below for further details.
You should also be aware that Acivir is safe while driving, and is addiction.
Acivir is used to treat the following -
Main Benefits
Other Benefits
This is the usual dosage recommended in most common treatment cases. Please remember that every patient and their case is different, so the dosage can be different based on the disease, route of administration, patient's age and medical history.
Find the right dosage based on disease and age
Age Group | Dosage |
Adult |
|
Geriatric |
|
13 - 18 years (Adolescent) |
|
2 - 12 years (Child) |
|
Infant (1 month to 2 years) |
|
Is the use of Acivir safe for pregnant women?
Pregnant women can take Acivir without worrying about any side effects.
Is the use of Acivir safe during breastfeeding?
Side effects of Acivir on breastfeeding women are very mild.
What is the effect of Acivir on the Kidneys?
Acivir rarely harms the kidneys.
What is the effect of Acivir on the Liver?
Side effects of Acivir rarely affect the liver.
What is the effect of Acivir on the Heart?
Side effects of Acivir rarely affect the heart.
Acivir should not be taken with following medicines due to severe side effects it may cause to patients -
Severe
Moderate
If you are suffering from any of the following diseases, you should not take Acivir unless your doctor advises you to do so -
Is this Acivir habit forming or addictive?
Acivir is not addictive in nature.
Is it safe to drive or operate heavy machinery when consuming?
Yes, you can comfortably use machinery or drive after taking Acivir since it will not make you feel sleepy.
Is it safe?
Yes, Acivir does not show any kind of adverse effect.
Is it able to treat mental disorders?
No, Acivir is not used to treat mental disorders.
Interaction between Food and Acivir
Taking Acivir with food does not cause any problems.
Interaction between Alcohol and Acivir
Side effects of drinking alcohol and taking Acivir at the same time are rare and minor. However, if you face any side effects, talk to your doctor immediately.
No, Acivir does not cause constipation. However, if you are experiencing constipation after taking this drug, it may be due to some other medical conditions. Take precautionary methods to avoid constipation such as eating fibrous food, drink plenty of fluid, and take some laxative (Lactulose syrup).
Acivir contains acyclovir. It works by preventing the DNA synthesis and replication of the virus. It interferes with DNA polymerase enzyme which is essential for the virus to synthesize DNA that helps in replicating the virus. In this way Acivir ensures eradication of viral infection from the body.
No, Acivir is a prescription drug so do not take it without consulting a doctor. It can cause adverse effects if taken without a doctor's recommendation. Hence, the patient should seek doctors advice before taking this medication by himself or herself.
Rarely, Acivir causes a headache. It is an uncommon side effect of this medicine. If you experience a severe headache after taking this drug, take a mild painkiller, apply balms and take rest, even if the pain does not subside then discuss it with your doctor.
Yes, Acivir is safe to use, if taken in a prescribed amount for a specified time as advised by the doctor. However, few side effects have been observed at the regular dose such as dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Do not hesitate to inform your doctor if you are facing any of the above side effects.
This medicine data has been created by -
B.Pharma, Pharmacy
5 Years of Experience
References
KD Tripathi. [link]. Seventh Edition. New Delhi, India: Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers; 2013: Page No 798-800
US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [Internet]. Maryland. USA; Package leaflet information for the user; Zovirax® (acyclovir)