Important Disclaimer - Please read
Acyclovir data on this page is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of this medication or any other in conjunction. By all means, this is general information only, and should not be relied on for any purpose. This information should not be construed as containing specific diagnosis, advice, or instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the reliability and accuracy of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including adverse consequences or damage to persons or property, however such adverse consequences or damage may happen. Either expressed or implied, no warranty is made in regards to this information.
How Acyclovir should be taken.
Treatment with Acyclovir topical should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (e.g. tingling, burning, blisters).
Wash your hands before and after applying Acyclovir topical.
Wear a glove or a finger cot or use an applicator (e.g. cotton swab) when applying Acyclovir topical to avoid spreading the virus to other body parts and to other people.
Apply enough ointment to cover the lesion(s) completely. A one-half inch ribbon of ointment should cover approximately 4 square inches of surface area.
Avoid getting this medication in the eyes.
Acyclovir topical is usually applied every 3 hours, six times a day for seven days. Follow your physician\'s instructions.
Use Acyclovir topical for the full amount of time prescribed, even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.
Lesions caused by herpes viruses should be kept as clean and dry as possible. Wearing loose clothing may help to prevent irritation of the lesions.
Precautions or Warnings for Acyclovir
Before using Acyclovir topical, tell your physician if you have any other medical conditions or if you use any other medications.
Acyclovir topical is in the FDA pregnancy category C, which means that it is not known whether it will harm an unborn baby. Do not use Acyclovir topical without first talking to your physician if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether Acyclovir topical passes into breast milk. Do not use Acyclovir topical without first talking to your physician if you are breast feeding a baby.
What to do if you miss a dose of Acyclovir
Apply it as soon as you remember and apply further doses at your regular interval (e.g., every 3 hours) until you go to bed. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the What to do if you miss a dose of Acyclovir and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Side effects that may be possible for Acyclovir
No serious side effects are expected during treatment with Acyclovir topical. If you suspect an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; rash; hives; itching; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face) seek emergency medical attention.
Other less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use Acyclovir topical and talk to your physician if you experience itching, stinging, burning, or a rash. These side effects should resolve quickly.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your physician about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
How to store Acyclovir
Store below 25oC. Do not refrigerate.
What to do when overdosing on Acyclovir
An overdose of this medication is not likely to occur. If you suspect an overdose or ingestion of Acyclovir topical, call an emergency room or poison control left for advice.
Other information on Acyclovir
Acyclovir Cream is contra-indicated in patients known to be hypersensitive to acyclovir or propylene glycol.
Acyclovir is most effective if it is started within 48 hours of when the rash first appears.
Follow the directions for using Acyclovir provided by your physician.
