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Acyclovir is a drug that fights the herpes virus and, to a lesser extent, the chickenpox virus as well. It is also used for several other viral infections. Acyclovir is part of a number of specifics available in the form of tablets, creams and injections. Some preparations are available without a prescription, others are available only on prescription.
Acyclovir – application
Acyclovir is an active substance with antiviral activity. It can be found in preparations used to treat infections caused by the following viruses.
- Herpes virus types 1 and 2. The main indication for the use of aciclovir is herpes simplex virus infections. The drug effectively inhibits the multiplication of pathogens and can be used prophylactically in the case of repeated infections. It is indicated in cases of recurrent herpes on the lips or face, genital herpes and herpetic keratitis. As a solution, it can be used to treat herpes simplex in newborns, infants and people with low immunity.
- Varicella zoster virus. Early administration of aciclovir relieves the symptoms of acute chickenpox and may heal the disease faster. There are no recommendations for prophylactic use of the drug.
- Cytomegalovirus. Infection with this pathogen leads to the development of cytomegalovirus. The disease is treated symptomatically, and the administration of aciclovir is considered in only a few groups, such as pregnant women, transplant recipients and immunodeficient people.
- Epstein-Barr virus. It causes infectious mononucleosis, which should only be treated with acyclovir and ganciclovir in some cases.
Acyclovir – drug forms
The method of using acyclovir and dosage depends on the type of infection and your doctor’s recommendations. The form of the prescribed drug is also important, i.e. tablets, cream, ointment or powder for the preparation of an intravenous solution. Topical creams are very popular. They help to fight recurrent herpes appearing around the mouth and genitals. A separate group of specifics is intended for use around the eyes – most often these are acyclovir ointments.
Acyclovir – contraindications and side effects
Certain precautions should be taken when using aciclovir. This applies especially to people with liver or kidney failure, as well as those suffering from water and electrolyte disturbances. Caution should be exercised in the elderly and when administering the drug intravenously. Taking higher doses of aciclovir should be accompanied by frequent fluid replacement.
Side effects from taking aciclovir don’t happen very often. The ingredient contained in ointments and creams may, however, cause burning and drying of the skin or its allergic inflammation. To the rest side effects of aciclovir it also includes itching, headache, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and fever. Dyspnea or anaphylactic reactions are rare. In the most severe cases, seizures, anemia, hepatitis, renal failure or coma may occur.
Acyclovir – pregnancy and breastfeeding
Taking aciclovir during pregnancy or lactation carries some risks to the fetus. This mainly applies to preparations available in forms other than creams and ointments. That is why you should consult your doctor before using acyclovir preparations containing this ingredient.
Acyclovir – treatment of children
Acyclovir is a substance that is used to treat chickenpox. Children over 2 years of age usually receive doses similar to those given to adults. In turn, children under 2 years of age receive much smaller doses of the drug. Before starting treatment with acyclovir, consult a doctor to determine how large the dose should be and how often it should be administered to the patient.
Preparations with acyclovir
Medicines containing acyclovir can be easily obtained at a pharmacy. Mostly over-the-counter products are available from lower aciclovir concentration. A doctor’s prescription will be required for higher levels of the active ingredient or intravenous products.
Examples of over-the-counter acyclovir medications:
- Aciclovir Ziaja – topical cream.
- Axoviral – in the form of a cream.
- Hascovir Control – tablets with acyclovir at a dose of 200 mg. You can also buy a drug in the form of a gel (Hascovir Lipożel Pro) or cream (Hascovir Pro) without a prescription.
- Herpex – in the form of a cream.
- Hevipoint in tablets or sticks.
- Heviran Comfort – 200 mg coated tablets.
- Viru-Pos – eye ointment.
- Zovirax Intensive — krem.
Examples of prescription acyclovir medications:
- Hascovir – 200, 400 or 800 mg tablets,
- Herpesin – administered intravenously.
- Heviran – coated tablets in doses of 200, 400 and 800 mg.
- Virolex – eye ointment.