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Acyclovir
Brand
Name: Acyclovir
Most
Common Medical Uses
Acyclovir
is an antiviral most commonly used to treat shingles, chickenpox,
or genital herpes. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes
virus so that the body can fight off the infection and lessens the
symptoms of these infections and shortens the length of time you
are sick. It may also be used to treat other conditions.
How
to Take This Medication
Take
as directed by your doctor. Acyclovir can be taken with or without
food. Taking acyclovir with food may decrease stomach upset. Do
not miss any doses. Take all of the Acyclovir that has been prescribed
for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start
to improve before the infection is completely treated.
Possible
Side Effects
Possible
side effects of taking Acyclovir include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea,
or headache. Stop taking acyclovir and seek emergency medical attention
or contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the
following serious side effects: an allergic reaction (difficulty
breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue,
or face; or hives); little or no urine production; or unusual bleeding
or bruising. Side effects other than those listed here may also
occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual
or that is especially bothersome.
Precautions
Do
not take Acyclovir without first talking to your doctor if you are
allergic to valacyclovir (Valtrex). Before taking this medication,
tell your doctor if you have kidney disease. If your symptoms do
not improve within a few days or if they become worse, check with
your doctor. If you are using this medicine for genital herpes,
begin using it as soon as you notice symptoms (pain, burning, blisters)
of an infection. Use a condom during sexual intercourse. If you
plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits
and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. Acyclovir passes
into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take this
medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding
a baby.
Drug
Interactions
Probenecid
(Benemid) may increase the effects of Acyclovir and lead to dangerous
side effects. Talk to your doctor and/or pharmacist before taking
any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal
products.
Missed
Dose
If
you miss a dose of this medicine, take the dose as soon as you remember.
However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose,
skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled
dose. Do not take a double dose.
Storage
Store
this medicine at room temperature in a tightly-closed container,
away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep this and all medications
out of the reach of children.
Notes
Herpes
infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even
during treatment. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact
with other people. Wash your hands frequently to prevent transmission.
Do not share Acyclovir with others for whom it was not prescribed,
since they may have a problem that is not effectively treated by
this drug.
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