Aciclovir 1200mg

Aciclovir 1200mg — Uses and Benefits

Aciclovir is used to treat infections caused by certain viruses, mainly herpes simplex and varicella-zoster viruses.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of chickenpox (varicella) in adults and children
• Treatment of shingles (herpes zoster)
• Treatment of genital herpes outbreaks
• Treatment of cold sores and other herpes simplex skin infections in some cases
• Prevention of recurrent herpes outbreaks in people who get them often, as decided by the doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Aciclovir enters virus-infected cells and blocks a viral enzyme needed for the virus to copy its genetic material
• This slows down and stops the virus from multiplying further
• It helps reduce pain, speed up healing of sores, and shorten the illness when started early

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not cure viral infections completely; the virus remains dormant in the body
• It is not effective against bacterial infections
• It is not used for common cold or flu caused by other viruses
• It is not a treatment for HIV or other unrelated infections

How to Use Aciclovir 1200mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the frequency and duration advised
• Swallow tablets with a full glass of water
• Can be taken with or without food, but taking with food may reduce stomach upset
• Drink plenty of fluids during treatment unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Try to take doses at evenly spaced times through the day to keep drug levels steady
• Complete the full course even if you feel better before finishing it

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink

Aciclovir 1200mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Tiredness or feeling unwell

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Skin rash or itching
• Loss of appetite
• Mild hair thinning

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat, severe rash, or difficulty breathing
• Reduced urine output or swelling of legs, which may indicate kidney problems
• Unusual confusion, agitation, hallucinations, drowsiness, or seizures
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or signs of low blood counts such as severe tiredness or infections

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Aciclovir 1200mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription medicine in India and should only be used under a doctor's guidance.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to aciclovir, valaciclovir, or any other ingredient in the tablet
• Have been advised against it by your doctor for a specific medical reason

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney disease or reduced kidney function
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Are elderly, as dose adjustment may be needed
• Have a weakened immune system
• Are dehydrated or have any electrolyte imbalance

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other medicines that affect the kidneys, such as certain painkillers
• Probenecid, which can increase aciclovir levels in the body
• Other nephrotoxic drugs or immunosuppressants, only under medical supervision
• Always share your complete list of medicines and supplements with your doctor

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

There is no major known interaction, but alcohol may worsen tiredness and stomach upset, so it is best to limit it during treatment.

Will this medicine cure herpes completely?

No, it controls outbreaks and speeds healing but does not remove the virus from the body permanently.

Can I stop the medicine once I feel better?

• No, complete the full course as prescribed even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from coming back.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.