Acyclovir

Generic name: Acyclovir (oral)
Drug class: Purine nucleosides

Usage of Acyclovir

Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus in the body. Acyclovir will not cure herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection.

Acyclovir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, such as genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chicken pox.

Sitavig buccal tabets are for use in treating only cold sores on the lips. Sitavig will not treat genital herpes.

Acyclovir may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Acyclovir side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Acyclovir may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

easy bruising or bleeding, purple or red pinpoint spots under your skin;

changes in behavior;

confusion, hallucinations; or

signs of a kidney problem--little or no urinating; painful or difficult urination; swelling in your feet or ankles; feeling tired or short of breath.

Common side effects of acyclovir may include:

mild skin pain;

rash, itching;

nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;

headache; or

mouth pain while using an acyclovir buccal tablet.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before taking Acyclovir

You should not take acyclovir if you are allergic to acyclovir or valacyclovir (Valtrex). You should not take Sitavig buccal tablets if you are allergic to milk proteins.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

kidney disease; or

a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine).

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Herpes can be passed to your baby during childbirth if you have a genital lesion when your baby is born. If you have genital herpes, it is very important to prevent herpes lesions during pregnancy. Take your medicine as directed to best control your infection.

It may not be safe to breastfeed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.

Acyclovir should not be given to a child younger than 2 years old.

Relate drugs

How to use Acyclovir

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Start taking acyclovir as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters). Start taking Sitavig within 1 hour after you first notice sold core symptoms, before the cold sore appears.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Do not crush, chew, suck on, or swallow a buccal tablet. Place the flat side of the tablet against your upper gum, on the same side of the mouth as your cold sore. Allow the tablet to dissolve in your mouth throughout the day. You may eat and drink normally while the buccal tablet is in place.

Do not give an acyclovir buccal tablet to a young child or choking could occur.

Shake the oral suspension (liquid) before you measure a dose. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Acyclovir doses are based on weight (especially in children and teenagers). Your dose needs may change if you gain or lose weight.

Drink plenty of water while you are taking acyclovir to keep your kidneys working properly.

Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses may increase the risk of your virus becoming resistant to medication.

Lesions caused by herpes viruses should be kept as clean and dry as possible. Wearing loose clothing may help to prevent irritation of the lesions.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

What other drugs will affect Acyclovir

Acyclovir can harm your kidneys, especially if you also use certain medicines for infections, cancer, osteoporosis, organ transplant rejection, bowel disorders, high blood pressure, or pain or arthritis (including Advil, Motrin, and Aleve).

Other drugs may affect acyclovir, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Disclaimer

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