Generic name: acyclovir (oral) [ a-SYE-klo-veer ]
Brand names: Sitavig, Zovirax
Drug class:Purine nucleosides
What is acyclovir?
Acyclovir is an antiviral drug that is used to treat symptoms of shingles, chickenpox, cold sores and genital herpes which are all caused by herpes viruses. It is also used to prevent having regular outbreaks of genital herpes. Acyclovir will not get rid of the virus infection but does help sores heal faster and helps with pain relief.
Warnings
Take acyclovir for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated.
Treatment with acyclovir should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).
Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with acyclovir. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people. Avoid touching an infected area and then touching your eyes. Wash your hands frequently to prevent passing the infection to others.
Before taking this medicine
You should not take this medicine if you are allergic to acyclovir or valacyclovir (Valtrex). You should not take acyclovir buccal tablets (Sitavig) if you are allergic to milk proteins.
To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
kidney disease; or
a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Herpes can be passed to your baby during childbirth if you have a genital lesion when your baby is born. If you have genital herpes, it is very important to prevent herpes lesions during pregnancy. Take your medicine as directed to best...
