Acyclovir can be used to take care of infections due to certain types of viruses. It treats sores that are cold the mouth (caused by herpes simplex), shingles (caused by herpes zoster), and chickenpox.
This medication normally used to treat outbreaks of genital herpes. In people who have frequent outbreaks, acyclovir is utilized to help reduce the true number of future episodes.
Acyclovir is an drug that is antiviral. However, it is not a cure for these infections. The viruses that cause these infections continue to live in the physical body even between outbreaks. Acyclovir decreases the length and severity of these outbreaks. It helps the sores heal faster, keeps new sores from forming, and decreases pain/itching. This medication may also help reduce how pain that is long after the sores heal. In addition, in people with a weakened immune system, acyclovir can decrease the danger of the virus spreading to the rest of the body and causing serious infections.
Take this medicine by lips with or without food, frequently 2 to 5 times a day as directed by your doctor. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless your medical practitioner directs you otherwise.
If you might be using the liquid form of this medication, shake the bottle well before each dose. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Don't use children spoon because you may not obtain the correct dose.
This medication is most effective when started during the sign that is first of outbreak, as directed by your doctor. It may not work as well if you delay treatment.
Dosage is based in your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, dosage is additionally based on fat.
This medicine is most effective once the level of drug within you is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. Each day to help you remember, take it at the same times.
Continue steadily to take this medication until the prescribed that is full is finished. Do not change your dose, skip any doses, or early stop this medication without your doctor's approval.
Tell your medical practitioner if your condition persists or worsens.
Nausea, diarrhea, headache, or vomiting may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your pharmacist or doctor promptly.
Understand that your doctor has prescribed this medicine she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects because he or. Many people using this medication do not have side that is serious.
Inform your physician right away if some of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: dizziness, drowsiness, signs of kidney problems (such as for example an alteration in the quantity of urine, uncommon back/adverse pain), mental/mood changes (such as agitation, confusion, hallucinations), shaky/unsteady movement, trouble speaking.
This medication may rarely cause a life-threatening disorder that affects the blood cells, kidneys, and other parts of the body. This disorder is more likely to occur if you have conditions related to a weakened immune system (such as for example HIV disease, bone marrow transplant, kidney transplant). Seek instant medical attention if any among these rare but serious negative effects occur: extreme tiredness, slow/fast/irregular heartbeat, effortless bruising/bleeding, new fever, bloody/dark urine, severe stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, sudden eyesight changes, loss of consciousness, seizures.
A very severe reaction that is allergic this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you observe any symptoms of a critical allergic response, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, difficulty breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible adverse effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the usa -
Phone your doctor for medical advice about negative effects. You could report effects that are side FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Phone your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You might report effects that are side Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Before taking acyclovir, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to valacyclovir; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergies or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: renal dilemmas, conditions associated with a weakened system that is immunesuch as for example HIV infection, bone marrow transplant, renal transplant).
This drug may rarely make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit beverages that are alcoholic.
Before having surgery, tell your physician or dentist about all these products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and organic products).
Usually do not have immunizations/vaccinations that are certainsuch as vaccines against the varicella virus) without the consent of your physician.
Older adults may become more sensitive to the part effects of the drug, particularly kidney problems (change in the amount of urine, back/side pain), dizziness, drowsiness, and mental/mood changes (such as confusion, hallucinations, lack of consciousness).
Acyclovir will not protect against the spread of genital herpes. To lower the possibility of giving herpes to your spouse, do not have sexual contact during an outbreak or if you have symptoms. You can spread herpes that are genital if you do not have symptoms. Consequently, always utilize a highly effective barrier method (latex or polyurethane condoms/dental dams) during all activity that is sexual. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
During maternity, this medicine should be utilized only whenever clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This medication passes into breast milk. However, this drug is not likely to damage a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
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