Aciclovir 800mg

Aciclovir 800mg — Uses and Benefits

Aciclovir 800mg is prescribed to treat viral infections caused by herpes simplex and varicella-zoster viruses.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treating shingles (herpes zoster)
• Treating chickenpox in certain patients, especially adults or those at higher risk of complications
• Treating genital herpes outbreaks
• Sometimes used to prevent recurrent herpes outbreaks as advised by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It gets converted inside virus-infected cells into an active form
• This active form blocks the enzyme the virus needs to copy its genetic material
• This stops the virus from multiplying further, allowing the body's immune system to control the infection
• It does not kill the virus completely but reduces symptoms and speeds up healing

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not effective against bacterial infections
• It is not a cure for herpes infections; the virus remains in the body and can reactivate
• It is not used for common cold or flu viruses
• It is not a treatment for HIV or other unrelated viral infections

How to Use Aciclovir 800mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually several times a day
• Swallow the tablet with a full glass of water
• Can be taken with or without food, but taking with food may help if you feel nausea
• Try to take doses at evenly spaced intervals through the day
• Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medicine unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Complete the full course even if you start feeling better, unless your doctor tells you to stop

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 as usual
• Do not take two doses together 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 800mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

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

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, throat, or difficulty breathing
• Severe skin reaction with blistering or peeling
• Reduced urination or swelling of legs, which may indicate kidney problems
• Unusual confusion, agitation, hallucinations, or drowsiness
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Easy bruising or unusual bleeding

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

Aciclovir 800mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only 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 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
• Are dehydrated or have any condition affecting fluid balance
• Have a weakened immune system

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 used for chemotherapy or infections
• Any other antiviral medicines, unless specifically advised by your doctor

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid alcohol as it may increase tiredness and dehydration risk; ask your doctor for specific advice.

Will this medicine cure herpes completely?

No, it controls the outbreak and reduces symptoms but does not remove the virus from the body permanently.

Can I take this medicine during pregnancy?

• Only if your doctor decides the benefits outweigh the risks; do not take it without medical supervision during pregnancy.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.