What is the most important information I should know about acyclovir?
Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your
symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated.
Treatment with acyclovir should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of
symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).
Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even while you are
being treated with acyclovir. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people.
Avoid touching an infected area and then touching your eyes. Wash your hands frequently to
prevent passing the infection to others.
What is acyclovir?
Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that
the body can fight off the infection. Acyclovir will not cure herpes, but it can lessen the
symptoms of the infection.
Acyclovir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses. Illnesses caused by herpes
viruses include genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chicken pox.
Acyclovir may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking acyclovir?
Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to acyclovir or
valacyclovir (
Valtrex).
Before taking acyclovir, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you
have
kidney disease. You may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.
FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an
unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
Herpes virus can be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. If you have
genital herpes, it is very important to prevent herpes lesions during your pregnancy so that you do
not have a genital lesion when your baby is born.
Acyclovir passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Do not take this
medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take acyclovir?
Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in
larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on
your prescription label.
Treatment with acyclovir should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of
symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).
Take each dose with a full glass of water. Drink plenty of water while you are taking
acyclovir to keep your kidneys working properly.
Acyclovir can be taken with or without food. Taking acyclovir with food may decrease
stomach upset.
Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. To be sure
you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not
with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for
one.
Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your
symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Acyclovir will not treat a
viral infection such as the
common cold or flu.
Lesions caused by herpes viruses should be kept as clean and dry as possible. Wearing
loose clothing may help to prevent irritation of the lesions.
Store acyclovir at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose,
skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
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