Acyclovir is a prescription medicine. It is typically used for the treatment of Herpes, Shingles, Cold Sores. The alternative uses of Acyclovir have also been explained below.
Medical history of the patient along with age and gender determines the dosage of Acyclovir. Individual symptoms and route of administration also determines the right dosage. This information has been provided in detail in the dosage section.
Apart from the aforementioned side effects, Acyclovir can also lead to other problems, which have been listed below. Usually, these side effects of Acyclovir go away soon, and do not persist beyond the duration of the treatment. If, however, they worsen or do not go away, please speak with your physician.
Furthermore, you should know that effect of Acyclovir is Safe for pregnant women and Mild for women who are breastfeeding. Warnings related to Acyclovir's effects on the liver, heart and kidney, if any, have been listed below.
Acyclovir can cause adverse effects in certain medical conditions. It is strongly recommended to avoid Acyclovir in conditions like Kidney Disease. Other conditions have been mentioned below in the Acyclovir contraindications section.
Drug interactions for Acyclovir have been reported in the medical literature. See below for a complete list.
You should also be aware that Acyclovir is safe while driving, and is addiction.
Acyclovir 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 |
Based on research, the following side effects have been observed when Acyclovir is used -
Moderate
Mild
Unknown
Is the use of Acyclovir safe for pregnant women?
Pregnant women can take Acyclovir safely.
Is the use of Acyclovir safe during breastfeeding?
Side effects of Acyclovir on breastfeeding women are very mild.
What is the effect of Acyclovir on the Kidneys?
Acyclovir has very mild side effects on the kidneys.
What is the effect of Acyclovir on the Liver?
Acyclovir may have mild side effects on the liver. Most people will never see any effect on the liver.
What is the effect of Acyclovir on the Heart?
Acyclovir may have mild side effects on the heart. Most people will never see any effect on the heart.
Acyclovir 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 Acyclovir unless your doctor advises you to do so -
Is this Acyclovir habit forming or addictive?
No, you will not get addicted to Acyclovir.
Is it safe to drive or operate heavy machinery when consuming?
Yes, you can operate a vehicle or heavy machinery after taking Acyclovir since it does not cause drowsiness.
Is it safe?
Yes, Acyclovir does not show any kind of adverse effect.
Is it able to treat mental disorders?
No, Acyclovir cannot treat any kind of mental disorder.
Interaction between Food and Acyclovir
Taking Acyclovir with food does not harm your health.
Interaction between Alcohol and Acyclovir
Side effects of drinking alcohol and taking Acyclovir at the same time are rare and minor. However, if you face any side effects, talk to your doctor immediately.
Rarely, Acyclovir 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.
No, Acyclovir does not cause low blood pressure (hypotension). It has not been reported by the patients who are taking this drug. If you are experiencing lightheadedness or blurry vision which are symptoms of low blood pressure after taking this drug then try to sit down and rest for a while till restored normal blood pressure.
Acyclovir is a brand name of acyclovir and it comes in different dosage forms such as a tablet, injection, and topical cream. It belongs to the class of drug known as antivirals. It is a prescription drug that is used in the treatment of infections caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) such as genital herpes and herpes labialis (cold sores). It is also used in the treatment of chickenpox and herpes zoster (shingles) which are caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV).
Yes Acyclovir can be taken with paracetamol. Prednisone does not interfere with the efficacy of Acyclovir. Hence, it is best to take them together. However, if you feel any discomfort after taking this drug do not hesitate to inform your doctor.
Acyclovir should be taken by mouth 1 - 2 times in a day or as advised by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food but it is preferred to take with a meal to avoid stomach upset. The topical cream should be applied gently on the affected area 5 - 6 times in a day or as advised by your doctor. After applying Acyclovir, gently rub the cream till fully absorbed, then wash your hands. Precautions must be taken in patients with neurological abnormalities, and improper liver or kidney function.
This medicine data has been created by -
B.Pharma, Pharmacy
5 Years of Experience
