Acyclovir
Information about Acyclovir
Acyclovir uses
Acyclovir is used in the treatment of herpes labialis, herpes simplex virus infections, shingles, genital herpes infection and chickenpox.
How acyclovir works
Acyclovir is an antiviral medication. It prevents the multiplication of virus in human cells. This stops the virus from producing new viruses and clears up your infection.
Common side effects of acyclovir
Vomiting, Nausea, Breathlessness, Rash, Low blood platelets, Convulsion, Hepatitis (viral infection of liver), Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Itching, Dry skin, Burning sensation, General discomfort, Urticaria, Inflammation of vein, Dry lips, Skin peeling, Decreased white blood cell count (lymphocytes), Anaphylactic reaction, Encephalopathy, Coma, Angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of skin)
Available Medicine for Acyclovir
Expert advice for Acyclovir
- Acyclovir helps in the treatment of herpes, chickenpox, and shingles.
- Do not skip any doses and finish the full course of treatment even if you feel better.
- Drink plenty of water while on treatment with this medicine. This helps to prevent dehydration and kidney damage.
- If you have genital herpes, use barrier methods (condoms) for contraception and avoid sexual contact while the sores are present.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to conceive or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Acyclovir
Acyclovir
Q. Will I get cured after taking Acyclovir for shingles?
Acyclovir is an antiviral medicine effective against herpes simplex and varicella zoster viruses. It does not cure infections caused by these viruses but helps to minimize the symptoms and shorten the duration of infection. It does not remove the viruses from the body but prevents the viruses from dividing and spreading.
Q. Does Acyclovir prevent transmission of infection to others?
No, you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with Acyclovir. Herpes infections are contagious, so avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people. Avoid touching your eyes after touching an infected area. Wash your hands frequently to prevent transmitting the infection to others. You should practice safe sex by using condoms. You should not have sex if you have genital sores or blisters.
Q. What are the serious side effects of Acyclovir?
Serious side effects are rare, but if you experience them, you should seek medical advice right away. These rare side effects include hives, blistering or peeling rash, yellow skin or eyes, unusual bruising or bleeding, loss of consciousness, fits, difficulty in breathing, hallucinations and swelling of the face, tongue, lips or throat.