Drug name:
Acyclovir
Common uses for
Acyclovir: Acyclovir® is used to treat the
symptoms of chickenpox, shingles, herpes virus
infections of the genitals (sex organs), the skin,
the brain, and mucous membranes (lips and mouth),
and widespread herpes virus infections in
newborns. Acyclovir is also used to prevent
recurrent genital herpes infections. Although
acyclovir will not cure herpes, it does help
relieve the pain and discomfort and helps the
sores (if any) heal faster.
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How to take Acyclovir
Follow the directions for using this
medicine provided by your doctor. Take Acyclovir
with food or milk if it upsets your stomach. Store Acyclovir at room temperature, away from light and
moisture. To clean up your infection completely,
continue taking Acyclovir for the full course of
treatment even if you feel better in a few days. Do not
miss any doses. If you miss a dose of Acyclovir,
take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for
your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your
regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Possible Side Effects of Acyclovir
Acyclovir Side
effects, which may go away during treatment, include
nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or headache. If they
continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your
doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
Acyclovir Precautions
If your
symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they
become worse, check with your doctor. If you are using
Acyclovir for genital herpes, begin using it as soon
as you notice symptoms (pain, burning, blisters) of an
infection. Use a condom during sexual intercourse. If
you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor
the benefits and risks of using this medicine during
pregnancy. If you are or may be pregnant, check with
your doctor for instructions on using Acyclovir
during pregnancy. Before you begin taking any new
medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check
with your doctor or pharmacist. Acyclovir is
excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be
breast-feeding while you are using Acyclovir, check
with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to
your baby.
Drug Interactions
Drug
interactions can result in unwanted side effects or
prevent a medicine from doing its job.
Acyclovir Missed Dose
Try to take
each dose at the scheduled time. If you miss Acyclovir dose,
take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is
near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the
missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do
not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
Acyclovir Storage
Store Acyclovir at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees
F (15 to 25 degrees C) away from heat and light. Keep
this and all medications out of the reach of children.
Notes
Acyclovir is
most effective if it is started within 48 hours of when
the rash first appears.