What Is Aciclovir?

Aciclovir (or acyclovir), often known as aciclovir, is an antiviral drug. It is commonly used to treat cold sores and genital herpes and is available in the form of tablets, creams, and liquid.

Valacyclovir is an alternative to aciclovir. Aciclovir targets a variety of herpes virus-related infections, such as cold sores, genital herpes, and infections in the eyes.

If you have a weakened immune system or have previously experienced these diseases, your doctor may recommend aciclovir to prevent further infections.

• It is also used to treat shingles and chickenpox.

Aciclovir can be obtained with a prescription. It is available in the following forms: as pills, eye ointment, liquid for swallowing, cold sore cream, and genital herpes cream.

Sometimes it is administered through injections, but these are typically reserved for hospitals. Most pharmacies and retail stores sell aciclovir cold sore cream without a prescription.

How does Aciclovir work?

Aciclovir inhibits the growth and spread of the herpes virus. It helps in controlling the infection and strengthens your body's defenses against it. No medication or therapy will eradicate the herpes virus from your body.

How to Take Aciclovir Tablets and Liquid?

Aciclovir liquid or tablets can be taken with or without food. To keep your kidneys functioning properly while taking this medication, drink lots of water.

• Swallow the entire tablet along with a glass of water.

You can dissolve tablets in water if you have trouble swallowing them. In a small glass of water, add a tablet and stir. To ensure you receive the entire dosage, drink the entire liquid.

To assist you in measuring your dosage, Aciclovir liquid is supplied with a plastic syringe or measuring spoon. Ask your doctor for a measuring spoon or syringe if you don't already have one.

A kitchen teaspoon won't measure the correct amount of medication, so avoid using one.

Using Aciclovir Cream

✅ Both before and after applying the cream, wash your hands.

✅ Five times a day, apply a small layer of cream to the cold sore. Repeat this every four hours - for example at 7 a.m., 11 a.m., 3 p.m., 7 p.m., and 11 p.m.

✅ Avoid applying acyclovir cream in your eyes, vagina, or mouth.

✅ For at least four days, use the cream. You can use the cream for an additional six days if the cold sore hasn't healed by then.

✅ After ten days, if the cold sore hasn't healed, stop applying the cream and let your doctor know.

Aciclovir Vs Valaciclovir

Aciclovir and Valaciclovir are both medications used to treat cold sores, shingles, herpes simplex, and genital herpes. Both are excellent at lowering pain and controlling the symptoms of herpes.

Furthermore, there appears to be a minor variation in side effects, with Aciclovir users reporting headaches, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, and diarrhea.

On the other hand, headaches, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and exhaustion are possible adverse effects of Valaciclovir.

Is Aciclovir suitable for all users?

Aciclovir cream, cold sore cream, and eye ointment can be used by most adults and children, as well as aciclovir tablets or acyclovir in liquid form.

Who cannot take aciclovir?

Some people should not take aciclovir. Consult your doctor to ensure that it's safe for you if you:

• have ever experienced an allergic reaction to any medication, including aciclovir
• suffer from renal issues
• are older than 65
• are nursing a child, attempting to conceive, or already pregnant

See your doctor about the appropriate aciclovir type if you have a compromised immune system (e.g., you have HIV or AIDS, or you have had a bone marrow transplant). They can suggest taking tablets instead of the cream.

Dosage

Dosage for Aciclovir Tablets and Liquid

You must begin taking (or utilising) this medication as soon as you notice any infection-related symptoms. Typically, a cold sore begins as a tingling, itching, or burning sensation.

The purpose for which you are taking aciclovir will determine the dose. How much and how often to take, it will be determined by your doctor.

• Typically, a single dosage ranges from 200 to 800 mg. Children may require smaller doses
• Aciclovir is often taken two to five times each day. Aim for equal dose spacing throughout the day.

Should you use aciclovir:

✅ You can take it 4 times a day: in the morning, at noon, in the late afternoon, and right before bed
✅ Five times a day: for instance, you may take it at 7 a.m., 11 a.m., 3 p.m., 7 p.m., and 11 p.m
Continue taking the medication until it is completely gone or until your pharmacist or doctor advises you to stop

Aciclovir is often taken for five to ten days to treat a viral infection. You might need to take it for a long period as a preventative measure.

Side Effects

Aciclovir, like many medications, has the potential to cause side effects in certain individuals, but not everyone will experience them.

Common side effects (liquid and tablet)

Less than 1 in 10 persons experience these common acyclovir tablets and liquid side effects. You can take the following actions to assist you deal with them:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Feeling sick (vomiting or nausea)
• diarrhoea
• Sensitivity to Sunlight

If the medication proves ineffective and side effects continue or do not go away, see a physician or pharmacist.

Common side effects (Cold sore and genital herpes cream)

Less than 1 in 100 people have these unusual side effects from cold sore and genital herpes creams:

• Burning or stinging for a brief period following cream application
• Dry, flaky, or itchy skin

Continue taking the medication as prescribed, but consult a physician or chemist if the medicine is not working as it should or its side effects persist or bother you.

Common side effects (Eye ointment) 

Eye ointment adverse effects are common. The ointment for the eyes often has moderate side effects. More than one in ten persons experience these usual side effects:

• feeling like something is in your eye, or experiencing burning or discomfort in your eyes
• eyes becoming more light-sensitive.

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