Acyclovir (Zovirax)

Pronounced: zoh-VIGH-racks
Generic name: Acyclovir

Why is Acyclovir (Zovirax) prescribed?

Acyclovir (Zovirax) liquid, capsules, and 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. Acyclovir (Zovirax) ointment is used to treat initial episodes of genital herpes and certain herpes simplex infections of the skin and mucous membranes.

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.

Most important fact about Acyclovir (Zovirax)

Acyclovir (Zovirax) does not cure herpes. However, it does reduce pain and may help the sores caused by herpes to heal faster. Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease. To reduce the chance of infecting your partner, forgo intercourse and other sexual contact while you have sores or any other symptom.

How should you take Acyclovir (Zovirax)?

Your medication should not be shared with others, and the prescribed dose should not be exceeded. Acyclovir (Zovirax) 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 (Zovirax) 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 (Zovirax) at room temperature in a dry place.

What are the side effects of Acyclovir (Zovirax)?

Side effects 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 (Zovirax).

More common side effects may include:

• Diarrhea
• general feeling of bodily discomfort
• nausea
• vomiting

Other reported side effects 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 Zovirax ointment may include:

• Burning
• itching
• mild pain
• skin rash
• stinging
• vaginal inflammation

Why should Acyclovir (Zovirax) not be prescribed?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Acyclovir (Zovirax) or similar drugs, you should not take this medication. Make sure that your doctor is aware of any drug reactions that you have experienced.

Special warnings about Acyclovir (Zovirax)

If you are being treated for a kidney disorder, consult your doctor before taking Acyclovir (Zovirax). 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.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Acyclovir (Zovirax)

If Acyclovir (Zovirax) 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 (Zovirax) with the following:

• Cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral)
• Interferon (Roferon-A)
• Probenecid (Benemid)
• idovudine (Retrovir)

Special information if you are pregnant or breast feeding

Acyclovir (Zovirax) 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 (Zovirax)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 breast feeding your baby until your treatment with Acyclovir (Zovirax) is finished.

Recommended dosage of Acyclovir (Zovirax)

ADULTS

For Genital Herpes

The usual dose is one 200-milligram capsule or 1 teaspoonful of liquid every4 hours, 5 times daily for 10 days. If the herpes is recurrent, the usual adult dose is 400 milligrams (two 200-milligram capsules, one 400-milligram tablet or2 teaspoonfuls) 2 times daily for up to 12 months.

If genital herpes is intermittent, the usual adult dose is one 200-milligramcapsule or 1 teaspoon of liquid every 4 hours, 5 times a day for 5 days. Therapy should be started at the earliest sign or symptom.

Ointment: Apply ointment to affected area every 3 hours, 6 times per day, for7 days. Use enough ointment (approximately one-half inch ribbon of ointment per4 square inches of surface area) to cover the affected area.

For Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

The usual adult dose is 800 milligrams (one 800-milligram tablet or 4teaspoonfuls of liquid) every 4 hours, 5 times daily for 7 to 10 days.

For Chickenpox:

The usual adult dose is 800 milligrams 4 times a day for 5 days.

If you have a kidney disorder, the dose will need to be adjusted by your doctor.

CHILDREN

The usual dose for chickenpox in children 2 years of age and older is 20milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight taken orally 4 times daily, for a total of 80 milligrams per 2.2 pounds, for 5 days. A child weighing more than 88pounds should take the adult dose.

The safety and effectiveness of oral Acyclovir (Zovirax) have not been established in children under 2 years of age. However, your doctor may decide that the benefits of this medication outweigh the potential risks. The safety and effectiveness of Acyclovir (Zovirax) ointment in children have not been established.

OLDER ADULTS

Your doctor will start you at the low end of the dosage range, since older adults are more apt to have kidney problems or other disease, or to be taking other medications.

Overdosage

Acyclovir (Zovirax) is generally safe. However, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

Symptoms of Zovirax overdose may include:

• Agitation
• kidney failure
• lethargy
• coma
• seizures