Aciclovir

About Aciclovir

Aciclovir is an antiviral used to treat cold sores, herpes, shingles, and chickenpox.

Aciclovir is available as a tablet, oral solution, or cream.

How does Aciclovir work?

Aciclovir is transformed into aciclovir triphosphate.

Aciclovir triphosphate is identical (an analog) to the chemicals (known as purine nucleosides) utilized by viral organisms to make DNA.

The virus's use of aciclovir triphosphate causes DNA damage and prevents the virus from reproducing.

What are the side-effects I may experience?

You may experience:

• Nausea

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Abdominal pain

• Skin sensitivity to sunlight

Are there any medications and foods I should avoid?

You can eat normally when using aciclovir.

Useful information

When taking aciclovir, drink lots of water.

I forgot a dose. What should I do?

If you forget to take your prescription, take it as soon as you remember.

If you miss a dose, don’t take a double dose.

If your next dose is approaching, skip the missed dose and take the next one.

Can I drive or operate machinery?

If you feel dizzy while taking aciclovir, don’t drive or use machinery.

Should I be bothered about possible addiction or dependence?

Aciclovir isn’t addictive.

Will my sexual performance, fertility or contraceptive be impaired?

Aciclovir hasn’t been demonstrated to interfere with sexual function, fertility or contraceptives.

Useful information

When taking aciclovir for genital herpes, you should avoid sexual activities such as kissing, oral sex, and penetrative intercourse. You should wait until the cold sores have healed before having sex, and always use a condom.

Can I use this medication if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Aciclovir isn’t likely to harm your unborn baby, and it is also safe to take while breastfeeding.