Acyclovir

Generically, the name is acyclovir 
Name of the brand: Sitavig, Zovirax
Class of drug: Purine nucleosides

What is Acyclovir?

Acyclovir is an antiviral medicine. It reduces the development as well as the spread of the herpes virus within the body. It cannot cure herpes however it will lessen the symptoms of the disease.

Acyclovir can be used to combat infections caused by the herpes virus, including cold sores, genital herpes as well as shingles, and chickenpox.

Sitavig (acyclovir tablet delayed release) is intended for use to treat cold sores on the lips. Sitavig does not treat genital herpes.¶

Warnings

You should take acyclovir throughout the period as prescribed by your physician. Your symptoms may improve prior to the infection is completely managed.

The treatment with acyclovir must be initiated as soon as is possible following the initial signs or symptoms (such as burning, tingling, or blisters).

Herpes infections are infectious and can spread to other people, even when you’re being treated with Acyclovir. Do not let infected areas touch others. Avoid touching the infected region and after that, touch the eyes. Cleanse your hands often to avoid spreading the infection to others.

Before taking this medication, you must consult your physician

It is not recommended to take this medication if suffer from an allergic reaction to acyclovir, or the drug valacyclovir (Valtrex). It is not recommended to take an acyclovir buccal tablet (Sitavig) when you are intolerant to proteins from milk.

To ensure that this medication is suitable for you, inform your physician if you suffer from:

• kidney disease or
• an insufficient immune system (caused through illness or the use of certain medications).

Consult your physician if you are breastfeeding or pregnant.

Herpes may be transmitted to your child during birth in the event that you have genital lesions when you give birth. If you have herpes genitalis, it’s essential to avoid the development of herpes lesions during pregnancy. Follow the directions for your medication to help control the infection.

It is not recommended to breastfeed while taking this medication. Consult your physician regarding any risks.

Acyclovir should not be administered to children younger than 2 years.

What is the best way to do it?

Use acyclovir as directed by your physician. Follow the directions on the label of your prescription and also read the medication guide or instructions sheets.

Take acyclovir as fast as you can following the first manifestation of symptoms (such as burning, tingling blisters, etc.). Begin taking Sitavig within one hour after you first begin to notice symptoms that are sold before you notice the cold sore appearing.

Take note of and follow the instructions for use that come in your medication. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor If you don’t understand the instructions.

Don’t chew, crush or chew into or swallow an oral tablet. Place the flat surface of the tablet on your upper gums, to the opposite side of your mouth that you have your sore. Let the tablet dissolve within your mouth throughout the day. You are able to consume food and drinks normally when you have the buccal tablet in your mouth.

Don’t give an acyclovir tablet for buccal use to a child who is young or else choking might occur.

shake your oral suspension (liquid) prior to you begin to measure the dosage. Utilize the dosing syringe that comes with or a dosage-measuring device (not an ordinary spoon).

Acyclovir dosages are determined by weight (especially in teenagers and children). Your dose needs may change if you gain or lose weight.

Drink plenty of fluids when you take this medication to keep your kidneys functioning correctly.

Take this medication for the prescribed amount of time, even if symptoms improve quickly. The absence of doses could increase the likelihood of the virus developing resistance to treatment.

Herpes virus-related lesions must be treated as clean and dry as is possible. Wearing loose clothes can assist in preventing irritation to the lesions.

Keep at room temperature, far from heat and moisture.

If I do not take a dose?

Do not take the medicine for as long as you can, however, avoid your missed dosage if it’s nearing the time to take the next dose. Don’t have two doses at one time.

If I take too much?

Get medical attention immediately or contact toll-free the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What to avoid?

Avoid the habit of brushing the teeth or chewing gum as well as wearing an over or lower denture when you’re wearing buccal tablets in your mouth. Rinse your mouth lightly. Drink plenty of water to avoid a dry mouth.

Herpes infections can be contagious and can cause infection to other people, even when you’re being treated with Acyclovir. Do not let infected areas come in contact with people. Avoid touching an affected area, and after that, touch the eyes. Make sure to wash your hands regularly to ensure that you don’t transmit the infection to others.

Acyclovir treatment will not stop you from transmitting herpes genital to your lover. Avoid sexual intercourse when you are suffering from active lesions or when you are beginning to show signs of an outbreak. Genital herpes could be transmitted via “viral shedding” from your skin, even though you don’t have signs.

Acyclovir adverse effects

Contact a medical professional immediately If you exhibit symptoms of an allergy reaction to the drug acyclovir, such as asthmatic hives; difficulty breathing, or swelling of your lips, face, and tongue.

Consult your physician immediately If you are suffering from:

• bleeding or bruising, areas of red or purple on your skin
• Changes in behavior;
• hallucinations, confusion; or
• indications of a kidney issue – very little or no urine painful or difficult to urinate; swelling of your ankles or feet and feeling exhausted or short of breath.

Common side effects of acyclovir are:

• mild irritation of the skin;
• rash, itching;
• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
• headaches migraine
• Mouth pain when using acyclovir buccal tablets.

This isn’t a complete list of all side effects. others could happen. Contact your physician for advice regarding medical adverse effects. You may report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other medications can alter the effects of Acyclovir?

Acyclovir could cause kidney damage, particularly when you are also taking specific medications for osteoporosis, cancer, infections organ transplant rejection digestive problems, and high blood pressure or arthritis pain (including Advil, Motrin, and Aleve, acetaminophen).

Other medications may interfere with acyclovir. This includes medications that are prescribed and available over the counter such as vitamins, herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking as well as any medications you are about to start or stop taking.

For more information

Always consult your physician to make sure the information presented on this page is applicable to your particular situation.