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. |
