acyclovir (zovirax) is an antiviral drug which acts against the herpes viruses, including herpes simplex 1 and 2 (cold sores and genital herpes), varicella-zoster (shingles and chicken pox), and the epstein-barr virus (mononucleosis).

acyclovir tablets, are used in the treatment of certain infections with herpes viruses. these include genital herpes, shingles, and chickenpox. this drug may not be appropriate for everyone, and its use should be thoroughly discussed with your doctor.

some doctors use acyclovir (zovirax), along with other drugs, in the treatment of aids, and for unusual herpes infections such as those following kidney and bone marrow transplants.

acyclovir (zovirax) is an antiviral drug which acts against the herpes viruses, including herpes simplex 1 and 2 (cold sores and genital herpes), varicella-zoster (shingles and chicken pox), and the epstein-barr virus (mononucleosis).

acyclovir tablets, are used in the treatment of certain infections with herpes viruses. these include genital herpes, shingles, and chickenpox. this drug may not be appropriate for everyone, and its use should be thoroughly discussed with your doctor.

some doctors use acyclovir, along with other drugs, in the treatment of aids, and for unusual herpes infections such as those following kidney and bone marrow transplants.

your medication should not be shared with others, and the prescribed dose should not be exceeded.
acyclovir ointment should not be used in or near the eyes. to reduce the risk of spreading the infection, use a rubber glove to apply the ointment.
you can take acyclovir with or without food.

if you miss a dose: take it as soon as you remember. if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.
never take 2 doses at the same time. if you are using the ointment, apply it as soon as you remember and continue your regular schedule.

storage instructions: store acyclovir at room temperature in a dry place.

if acyclovir is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered.

it is especially important to check with your doctor before combining acyclovir with the following: cyclosporine (sandimmune, neoral), interferon (roferon-a), probenecid (benemid), zidovudine (retrovir).

acyclovir seems relatively safe during pregnancy. nevertheless, it should be used only if its benefits outweigh the potential risk to the baby. if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.
acyclovir appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. if this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding your baby until your treatment with acyclovir is finished.

if you are being treated for a kidney disorder, consult your doctor before taking acyclovir . the drug has been known to cause kidney failure.
if you develop unusual bruising or bleeding under the skin, be sure to alert your doctor. it could signal a dangerous blood disorder.

side effects of acyclovir cannot be anticipated. if any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking acyclovir.

more common side effects of acyclovir: may include diarrhea, general feeling of bodily discomfort, nausea, vomiting.

other reported side effects of acyclovir include: aggressive behavior, agitation, allergic reactions, blood in the urine, coma, confusion, decreased consciousness, delirium, dizziness, fever, hair loss, hallucinations, headache, hives, itching, kidney failure, lack of coordination, pain, psychosis, rash, seizures, skin peeling, sleepiness, swelling, swollen face and throat, swollen lymph nodes, tingling, upset stomach, vision problems, yellowish skin and eyes.

common side effects of acyclovir ointment may include burning, itching, mild pain, skin rash, stinging, vaginal inflammation.