Aciclovir 400mg

Aciclovir 400mg — Uses and Benefits

Aciclovir 400mg is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of genital herpes outbreaks
• Treatment of cold sores caused by herpes simplex virus
• Treatment of shingles (herpes zoster) in adults
• Treatment or prevention of chickenpox in certain high-risk people
• Prevention of recurrent herpes outbreaks when taken regularly, as advised by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It gets converted into an active form inside virus-infected cells
• It blocks an enzyme the virus needs to copy its genetic material
• This stops the virus from multiplying further
• It does not remove the virus completely from the body, but reduces severity and duration of the outbreak

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not treat bacterial infections
• It does not treat common cold or flu (which are caused by different viruses)
• It is not a cure for herpes infection; the virus stays in the body in an inactive state
• It is not used for HIV or other unrelated viral infections

How to Use Aciclovir 400mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the same times each day
• Can be taken with or without food, unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Swallow the tablet with a full glass of water
• Drink plenty of fluids during the day while on this medicine, especially at higher doses
• Complete the full course even if you feel better, unless your doctor tells you to stop
• Start treatment as early as possible after symptoms begin, as advised by your doctor, for best effect

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, set reminders or ask your pharmacist for tips

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep in the original pack until it is time to take it
• Keep out of reach and sight of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Aciclovir 400mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Tiredness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Skin rash or itching
• Loss of appetite
• Mild joint or muscle pain

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Very reduced urine output or swelling of legs, suggesting kidney problems
• Unusual bruising, bleeding, or signs of blood disorders
• Confusion, agitation, hallucinations, or seizures
• Severe skin reaction with blistering or peeling

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

Aciclovir 400mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should only be used under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to aciclovir, valaciclovir, or any 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 elderly, as dose adjustment may be needed
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• 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 or nephrotoxic drugs
• Probenecid, which can increase aciclovir levels in the blood
• Other antiviral or immunosuppressant medicines
• Always share your complete list of medicines and supplements with your doctor or pharmacist

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

There is no major known interaction, but alcohol can worsen tiredness and dehydration, so it is best to limit it while unwell.

Will this medicine cure herpes completely?

No, it reduces symptoms and duration of outbreaks but does not remove the virus permanently from the body.

Can I take this medicine for a common cold?

• No, it works only against herpes-family viruses and is not effective for cold or flu viruses.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.