Sitavig

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

Usage of Sitavig

Sitavig (acyclovir) is a prescription medicine used to treat recurrent cold sores (herpes labialis) in adults with normal immune systems. Acyclovir slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus in the body. It does not cure herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection.

Sitavig is buccal tablet used as a single dose placed under the upper lip in gum area above the incisor tooth (canine fossa).

Sitavig belongs to a class of antiviral medications called synthetic nucleoside analogues. Acyclovir works by stopping the spread of the herpes virus in the body.

Sitavig is for use in treating only cold sores on the lips and will not cure genital herpes and may not stop the spread of genital herpes to other people.

Sitavig side effects

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

Sitavig 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 Sitavig side effects may include:

mild skin pain;

rash, itching;

nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;

headache; or

mouth pain while using a 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 Sitavig

To make sure Sitavig is safe for you, 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.

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

Relate drugs

How to use Sitavig

Usual Adult Dose for Herpes Simplex Labialis:

Immunocompetent host: Apply 50 mg (1 buccal tablet) as a single-dose to the upper gum region (canine fossa) Comments: -Tablet should be applied within 1 hour after the onset of prodromal symptoms and before the appearance of any signs of herpes labialis lesions. -Tablet should be applied on the same side of the mouth as the herpes labialis symptoms. -Use of buccal tablets has not been studied in immunocompromised subjects.

Use: For the treatment of recurrent herpes simplex labialis (cold sores).

Warnings

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

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 Sitavig

Sitavig 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 interact with 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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