Review Drug

Brand name Zovirax

Used in the following combined preparations None

Aciclovir is an antiviral drug used in the treatment of herpes infections of all
types. Most commonly given in the form of a cream, aciclovir reduces the
severity of outbreaks of cold sores and herpes. Aciclovir may be given by
injection or by mouth for severe or recurrent cases of genital herpes. Herpes
zoster (shingles) infections are treated with aciclovir tablets. The drug is
prescribed on a regular basis for people who have reduced immunity. In addition,
aciclovir is administered in the form of ointment for herpes infections
affecting the eye.

The injected form is prescribed with caution to those with impaired kidney
function because of the risk of aciclovir accumulating in the body.

Information For Users

Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.

How taken

Tablets.

Liquid

Injection

Cream.

Eye Ointment.

Frequency and timing of doses

2-5 x daily. Start as soon as possible.

Adult dosage range

Tablets, liquid 1-4g daily (treatment); 800mg daily, occasionally 1.6g daily
(prevention). Cream, eye ointment As directed.

Onset of effect

Within 24 hours.

Duration of action

Up to 8 hours.

Diet advice

None.

Storage

Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.
Protect from light.

Missed dose

Tablets/liquid Take as soon as you remember.
Cream, eye ointment Do not apply
the missed dose. Apply your next dose as usual.

Stopping the drug

Complete the full course as directed.

Exceeding the dose

An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to be a cause for concern.
But if you notice any unusual symptoms, or if a large overdose has been taken,
notify your doctor.

Possible Adverse Effects

Serious adverse effects are rare. The cream commonly causes discomfort at the
site of application. Confusion and hallucinations occur rarely with injections.

Interactions (by mouth or injection only)

General note Any drug that affects the kidneys increases the risk of side
effects with aciclovir.

Probenecid may increase the level of aciclovir in the blood.

Quick Reference

Drug group Antiviral drug

Overdose danger rating Low

Dependence rating Low

Prescription needed Yes (except for cold sore cream)

Available as generic No

Special Precautions

Be sure to tell your doctor if:

You have a long-term kidney problem.

You have reduced immunity.

You are taking other medications.

Pregnancy

Topical preparations carry no known risk, but oral and injectable forms are not
usually prescribed, as the effects on the developing baby are unknown. Discuss
with your doctor.

Breast-feeding

No evidence of risk with topical forms. The drug passes into the breast milk
following injection or oral administration. Discuss with your doctor.

Infants and children

Reduced dose necessary in young children.

Over 60

Reduced dose may be necessary.

Driving and hazardous work

Avoid such activities until you know how aciclovir affects you because the drug
may cause dizziness if it is taken by mouth.

Alcohol

No known problems.

Prolonged Use

Aciclovir is usually given as single courses of treatment and is not given long
term, except for people with reduced immunity.