What family is acyclovir in?
Acyclovir belongs to the family of medicines called antivirals, which are used to treat infections caused by viruses. Usually these medicines work for only one kind or group of virus infections.
What can acyclovir ointment be used for?
ACYCLOVIR (ay SYE kloe veer) is an antiviral medicine. It is used to treat infections caused by certain kinds of viruses. Examples of these infections include cold sores and herpes.
Can you buy aciclovir cream over the counter?
Aciclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat infection caused by the herpes virus, including cold sores, genital herpes, chicken pox and shingles. It is available on prescription as an oral medication, or as a topical cream which can be bought over the counter, prescription-free.
For which virus is acyclovir the drug of choice?
Acyclovir is a medication used in the management and treatment of infections caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It is FDA approved to treat genital herpes and HSV encephalitis. Some off-label uses include cold sores, shingles, and chickenpox. It is in the antiviral class of medications.
Does acyclovir weaken immune system?
Our data reveal that low dose acyclovir does indeed decrease the cytokine response of CD4+ T cells to the late viral protein pp65 and indicates a potential role of this drug as an agent to modulate CMV-specific immunity.
Who should not take acyclovir?
You should not take acyclovir buccal tablets (Sitavig) if you are allergic to milk proteins. Tell your doctor if you have ever had: kidney disease; or. a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine).
Is acyclovir hard on the kidneys?
Although the drug is well tolerated, severe nephrotoxicity, which often leads to acute renal failure, has been observed in patients [4, 7]. Acyclovir-induced renal failure occurs in approximately 12–48 % of cases [4].
Can antivirals weaken immune system?
The inhibitory effects of antivirals on immune cells may contribute to the immune deterioration observed in patients following prolonged use of the drugs.
How much water should you drink when taking acyclovir?
Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water or fluids every day while you are taking this medicine. This will help prevent side effects. You can still pass chickenpox, shingles, or herpes to another person even while you are taking this medicine.
What should you not take with acyclovir?
Common medications that may interact with acyclovir include:
- amphotericin.
- clozapine.
- hepatitis B medications, such as entecavir.
- HIV medications, such as tenofovir and zidovudine.
- gentamicin.
- NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, or naproxen.
- other antivirals, such as valacyclovir.
- probenecid.
Are there any side effects to topical acyclovir?
Topical acyclovir may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately: Topical acyclovir may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while using this medication.
How is acyclovir used as an antiviral medicine?
Descriptions. Acyclovir belongs to the family of medicines called antivirals. Antivirals are used to treat infections caused by viruses. Usually they work for only one kind or group of virus infections. Topical acyclovir is used to treat the symptoms of herpes simplex virus infections of the skin, mucous membranes, and genitals (sex organs).
How old do you have to be to take acyclovir topically?
You should not use acyclovir topical if you are allergic to acyclovir or valacyclovir ( Valtrex ). Acyclovir topical is not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old. Tell your doctor if you have ever had a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine).
How to use acyclovir cream to prevent herpes?
How to use Acyclovir Cream. Acyclovir cream does not prevent the spread of herpes. Avoid close physical contact with others (such as kissing) during an outbreak until the cold sores have completely healed. Also, try not to touch the cold sore, and wash your hands if you do touch the cold sore.