ACYCLOVIR DRUG INFO
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The following information is intended to supplement, not
substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your
physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It
should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is
safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your
healthcare professional before using this drug.
ACYCLOVIR - ORAL (ay-SYE-klo-veer)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zovirax
ACYCLOVIR USES: Acyclovir is used to treat herpes
infections of the skin, mouth, mucous membranes, genital
herpes, herpes zoster (shingles), and chickenpox in some
individuals. Acyclovir does not cure herpes, but
relieves the pain and may make the infection clear faster.
HOW TO USE ACYCLOVIR: Begin taking
Acyclovir as soon as
symptoms appear. Take
Acyclovir as directed. Ask your
doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Try to take
Acyclovir at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day
and night. This will ensure a constant blood level of Acyclovir and is most effective.
ACYCLOVIR SIDE EFFECTS:
Acyclovir may cause stomach
upset, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea,
headache, dizziness or weakness. These effects should
disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the
medication. If they persist or become worse, inform your
doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: numbness or
tingling of the hands or feet, leg pain, sore throat, skin
rash, change in the amount of urine. An allergic reaction to
this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention
if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:
rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your
doctor or pharmacist.
ACYCLOVIR PRECAUTIONS:
Acyclovir should be used
cautiously during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is
not known if Acyclovir appears in breast milk. Consult
with your doctor before breast-feeding.
ACYCLOVIR DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about all the
medicines you use (both prescription and nonprescription).
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or
pharmacist approval.
ACYCLOVIR OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your
local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Symptoms of overdose may include sluggishness, change in
amount of urine, loss of consciousness, or seizures.
ACYCLOVIR NOTES: Avoid sexual activity while signs and symptoms
of genital herpes are present to prevent infecting your
partner. Inform your doctor if
Acyclovir does not
appear to decrease the frequency or severity of recurrent
infections.
ACYCLOVIR MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take as soon as
remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next
dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual
dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
ACYCLOVIR STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from sunlight
and moisture. |
Allergies
