Acyclovir Use
Acyclovir is an antiviral drug that helps relieve fever, muscle aches, blisters, and other symptoms caused by herpes outbreaks.
Indication
Herpes genitalis, herpes simplex, herpes zoster
How Acyclovir works
Acyclovir works by slowing the growth and spread of the herpes virus so the body can fight off the infection. As a result, Acyclovir reduces your symptoms and shortens the length of time you are sick.
Dose
- Genital herpes (initial): 200mg po q 4 hours 5 times/day X 10 days
- Genital herpes (recurrent or suppressive therapy): 400mg 2 times/day for up to 12 months, then re-evaluate.
- Herpes zoster: 800mg 5 times/day X 7-10 days
- Sever HZV or complications: 5-10mg/kg IV q 8 hours X 7-10 days. Administer at constant rate over 1 hour.
How to take Acyclovir
Your treatment with Acyclovir should begin as soon you notice the first sign of symptoms (tingling, burning, blisters, e.g.). To avoid stomach upset, take Acyclovir with food. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated. Take all of the Acyclovir that has been prescribed to you even if you feel better. During treatment keep lesions clean and dry. Also, wear loose clothing to prevent irritation.
Acyclovir precautions
DO NOT let infected areas come in contact with other people. Acyclovir will not prevent the spread of herpes to others. Wash your hands frequently to prevent transmission. Also, avoid sexual contact or use latex condoms during sex. If you are taking Probenecid (Benemid) to treat arthritis, talk to your doctor about using Acyclovir. Probenecid (Benemid) may increase the effects of Acyclovir, which can lead to dangerous side effects.
Other nephrotoxic agents and probenecid. Reports of 30% decrease clearance of acyclovir when used with probenecid; reduced acyclovir dose.
Use in Pregnancy
Category C. Risk to fetus cannot be ruled out. Consider use if benefit outweighs the potential risk.
What to tell your doctor
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease. You may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment. If you are pregnant or nursing DO NOT take Acyclovir without first consulting with your doctor.
Acyclovir side effects
Stop taking Acyclovir and seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following serious side effects: Parenteral:
- Renal toxicity; precipitation of acyclovir crystals can occur in renal tubules if the maximum solubility of free acyclovir (2.5mg/ml at 37° C in water) is exceeded or if the drug is given by bolus injection. Serum creatinine and BUN rise and creatinine clearance decreases.
- Encephalopathic changes: Approximately 1% of patients receiving IV acyclovir manifested encephalopathic changes characterized by lethargy, obtundation, tremors, confusion, hallucinations, agitation, seizures or coma.
- Other: transient elevation of serum creatinine; rash or hives; diaphoresis; hematuria; hypotension; headache and nausea; thrombocytosis.
- Oral: (GI side effects reduced if take with meals)
- Short-term therapy: nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, fatigue, skin rash, edema. inguinal adenopahty, anorexia, leg pain, medication taste, sore throat.
- Long-term: nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, headache, vertigo, insomina, irritability, depression, skin rash, acne. accelerated hair loss, arthralgia, fever, palpitations, sore throat, muscle cramps, mestrual abnormalities, lyphadenopathy.
include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Decreased appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Headache or lightheadedness
- Joint pain
