ACYCLOVIR DRUG INFO
IMPORTANT NOTE: 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. Consult your
healthcare professional before using this drug.
ACYCLOVIR - ORAL (ay-SYE-klo-veer)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zovirax
USES: Acyclovir is used to treat herpes infections of the skin,
mouth, mucous membranes, genital herpes, herpes zoster (shingles), and chickenpox in some individuals. This
medication does not cure herpes, but relieves the pain and may make the infection clear faster.
HOW TO USE: Begin taking Acyclovir as soon as symptoms appear. Take
Acyclovir as directed. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Try to take the
medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. This will ensure a constant blood level
of the medication and is most effective.
SIDE EFFECTS: Acyclovir may cause stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting,
diarrhea, headache, dizziness or weakness. These effects should disappear in a few days as your body
adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become worse, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you
experience: numbness or tingling of the hands or feet, leg pain, sore throat, skin rash, change in the
amount of urine. An allergic reaction to Acyclovir is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it
occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Acyclovir should be used cautiously during pregnancy
only if clearly needed. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult with your doctor
before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use
(both prescription and nonprescription). Do not start or stop Acyclovir or any medicine without doctor or pharmacist
approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room
immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include sluggishness, change in amount of urine, loss of
consciousness, or seizures.
NOTES: Avoid sexual activity while signs and symptoms of genital herpes
are present to prevent infecting your partner. Inform your doctor if Acyclovir does not appear to
decrease the frequency or severity of recurrent infections.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose of Acyclovir, take as soon as remembered; do not take
if it is almost 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.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.
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