Acyclovir
Acyclovir is the generic of the prescription drug Zovirax.
Acyclovir is used to treat the symptoms of
chickenpox, shingles, herpes
virus infections of the genitals,
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.
The following information is intended to supplement,
not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist
or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that
use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Please consult your
healthcare professional before using this or any other prescription or
non-prescription medication.
Uses of Acyclovir
Acyclovir is an antiviral used to treat shingles, chickenpox, or
genital herpes. Acyclovir may also be used to treat other
conditions.
Acyclovir Directions
Follow the directions for using Acyclovir 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.
Acyclovir Side Effects
Side effects of Acyclovir, that 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 Acyclovir 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.
Acyclovir Drug Interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent
a medicine from doing its job.
Missed Dose of Acyclovir
Try to take each dose at the scheduled time. If you miss a dose
of Acyclovir , 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 Notes
Acyclovir is most effective if it is started within 48 hours of
when the rash first appears.
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.
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