Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 15, 2022.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Zovirax
In Canada
- Acyclovir
Available Dosage Forms:
- Tablet
- Suspension
- Capsule
- Powder for Solution
- Solution
Therapeutic Class: Antiviral
Pharmacologic Class: Viral DNA Polymerase Inhibitor
Chemical Class: Guanosine Nucleoside Analog
Uses for acyclovir
Acyclovir belongs to the family of medicines called antivirals, which are used to treat infections caused by viruses. Usually these medicines work for only one kind or group of virus infections.
Acyclovir is used to treat the symptoms of chickenpox, shingles, herpes virus infections of the genitals (sex organs), the skin, the brain, and mucous membranes (lips and mouth), and widespread herpes virus infections in newborns. Acyclovir is also used to prevent recurrent genital herpes infections. Although acyclovir will not cure herpes, it does help relieve the pain and discomfort and helps the sores (if any) heal faster.
Acyclovir may also be used for other virus infections as determined by your doctor. However, it does not work in treating certain virus infections, such as the common cold.
Acyclovir is available only with your doctor's prescription.
Before using acyclovir
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For acyclovir, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to acyclovir or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
A limited number of studies have been done using oral acyclovir in children, and it has not caused different effects or problems in children than it does in adults.
Geriatric
Agitation, confusion, dizziness, and drowsiness may be especially likely to occur in elderly patients who are usually more s...
