Acyclovir can be used to take care of infections caused by certain kinds of viruses. It treats cold sores around the mouth (caused by herpes simplex), shingles (caused by herpes zoster), and chickenpox.
This medication normally utilized to treat outbreaks of genital herpes. In people who have frequent outbreaks, acyclovir is used 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 human body even between outbreaks. Acyclovir decreases the severity and length of these outbreaks. It helps the sores heal faster, keeps new sores from forming, and decreases pain/itching. This medication also may help reduce how pain that is long after the sores heal. In addition, in people with a weakened system that is immune acyclovir can reduce steadily the threat of the herpes virus spreading to other areas of the body and causing serious infections.
Take this medication by mouth 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 doctor directs you otherwise.
If you're utilizing 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 a family group spoon because may very well not get the correct dose.
This medication is best suited when started at 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 on your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, dosage is also based on fat.
This medication works best as soon as the quantity of drug within your body is kept at a level that is constant. 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 stop this medication early 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 quickly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medicine because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have adverse that is serious.
Tell your physician right away if some of these not likely but serious adverse effects occur: dizziness, drowsiness, signs of kidney problems (such as for example a change in the amount of urine, uncommon back/side pain), mental/mood changes (such as agitation, confusion, hallucinations), shaky/unsteady movement, difficulty speaking.
This medication may cause a life-threatening rarely 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 tissue marrow transplant, kidney transplant). Seek immediate medical attention if any among these rare but serious unwanted effects occur: extreme tiredness, slow/fast/irregular heartbeat, simple bruising/bleeding, new temperature, bloody/dark urine, severe stomach/abdominal discomfort, yellowing eyes/skin, sudden eyesight changes, loss of consciousness, seizures.
A very serious reaction that is allergic this drug is rare. However, seek immediate attention that is medical you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic response, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), serious dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a list that is complete of side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your pharmacist or doctor.
In the usa -
Phone your medical professional for medical advice about negative effects. You could report effects that are side Food And Drug Administration at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your medical professional for medical advice about part effects. You might report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Before using acyclovir, inform your medical professional or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to valacyclovir; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain ingredients that are inactive which could cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for additional information.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, conditions associated with a weakened system that is immunesuch as for instance HIV illness, bone marrow transplant, renal transplant).
This drug may make you dizzy rarely or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness you can perform such activities safely until you are sure. Limit beverages that are alcoholic.
Before having surgery, tell your medical professional or dentist about all the merchandise you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and organic products).
Do not have immunizations/vaccinations that are certainsuch as vaccines against the varicella virus) without the permission of your medical practitioner.
Older adults may become more sensitive to the part effects of this drug, specially kidney problems (improvement in the total amount of urine, back/adverse pain), dizziness, drowsiness, and mental/mood changes (such as for instance confusion, hallucinations, loss in consciousness).
Acyclovir does not protect up against the spread of vaginal herpes. To reduce the possibility of giving herpes to your lover, 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 an effective barrier method (latex or polyurethane condoms/dental dams) during all sexual activity. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for lots more details.
During maternity, this medicine should be used only whenever clearly needed. Talk about the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This medicine passes into breast milk. However, this drug is unlikely to damage a nursing infant. Consult your physician before breast-feeding.
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