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| Acyclovir: Antiviral Drug for Treatment of Herpes Simplex Virus |
Active ingredient
The active ingredient is
acyclovir and it works in the body to slow the growth and spreading of the
herpes virus. It does not cure the herpes virus, but it reduces the symptoms of
the infection.
Conditions
treated
- Herpes simplex virus (shingles and chicken pox)
- Genital herpes
- Cold sores
Generic vs brand name
Zovirax is available as a
generic drug called acyclovir. Another brand name is Sitavig.
Indications
and dosage information
- Always consult with your healthcare professional for use of medicine. The doctor might prescribe doses contrary to the recommended doses below and may be used for other purposes.
- For treatment of acute herpes zoster: The recommended dose is 800mg every 4 hours orally, 5 times daily for 7 to 10 days.
- For treatment of genital herpes: The recommended dose is 200mg every 4hours, 5 times a day for 10 days.
- For treatment of chickenpox in children (2 years of age and older): The recommended dose is 20mg/kg taken orally 4 times a day (80 mg/kg/day) for 5 days.
- Adults and children over 40 kg should take 800mg 4 times a day for 5 days
Acyclovir
side effects
Acyclovir may induce some side
effects, which include, but are not limited to, the list below. Report any new
symptoms occurring after the use of Zovirax.
·
General ill feeling
·
Headache
·
Edema
·
Arthralgia
·
Sore throat
·
Constipation
·
Elevated liver function tests
·
Hepatitis
·
Hyperbilirubinemia
·
Abdominal pain
·
Hair loss
·
Rash and weakness
·
Photosensitive rash
·
Pruritus
· Stevens-Johnson syndrome
· Toxic epidermal necrolysis
· Urticarial
· Nausea
· Vomiting
· Diarrhea
Warnings
and precautions
Contraindications
The use of Zovirax is
contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to acyclovir or any of the
excipients used in the formulation.
Precautions
Consult with your health care professional in case of any allergy, or medical
conditions, or if you are breastfeeding or pregnant.
Ø Zovirax should be used with caution in patients with impaired renal
function.
Ø The drug should not be taken if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Ø It is important to note that these medications not a cure for herpes
simplex virus.
Drug
interactions
Taking Zovirax with certain
drugs can either potentiate their effects in the body or nullify them.
Therefore, you should know the medicines you take and always remember to tell
your healthcare provider when you are prescribed new medicine. Below are examples
of medicines that may interact acyclovir when used together.
- Zidovudine
- Probenecid
- Ketoconazole
- Interferon
How to
store Zovirax?
- Store away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Store at room temperature.
- Do not store in a moist place (bathroom).
- Keep in a closed container.
- Keep out of the reach of children.
Overdose
If you accidentally overdose on
Zovirax, seek immediate medical advice or call the Poison Control.
What if I
miss a dose?
Take a dose as soon as you
remember, however if you remember shortly before the next dose, only take one
dose. Never try to double up on the doses.