Acyclovir 200mg

Acyclovir 200mg — Uses and Benefits

This medicine is mainly used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Cold sores (herpes labialis)
• Genital herpes infections
• Chickenpox (varicella)
• Shingles (herpes zoster)
• Prevention of recurrent herpes outbreaks in some patients, as advised by the doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It gets converted inside 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
• It helps reduce pain, speed up healing, and lower the chance of spreading infection to others
• It does not remove the virus completely from the body

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not treat bacterial infections
• It does not treat common cold or flu caused by other viruses
• It is not a cure for herpes infection; the virus can remain dormant and flare up again
• It is not effective against HIV or other unrelated viral infections

Always take this medicine only for the condition your doctor has prescribed it for.

How to Use Acyclovir 200mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, in the dose and frequency advised
• Can be taken with or without food, unless your doctor says otherwise
• Swallow the tablet with a glass of water
• Drink plenty of fluids during treatment unless advised otherwise
• Complete the full course even if you start feeling better
• Start treatment as early as possible after symptoms appear, especially for cold sores or shingles, as advised by your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• Try to space out doses evenly through the day as guided by your doctor

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat and sunlight
• Keep in a dry place, away from moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Acyclovir 200mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea or stomach upset
• Headache
• Feeling tired

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

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

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, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Reduced urination, swelling of legs, or unusual tiredness (signs of kidney problems)
• Confusion, agitation, hallucinations, tremors or seizures
• Unusual bruising or bleeding

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

Acyclovir 200mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any ingredient in the tablet
• Have previously had a severe reaction to this medicine

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney disease or reduced kidney function
• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
• Are breastfeeding
• Have a weakened immune system
• Are elderly, as dose adjustment may be needed
• Are dehydrated or have low fluid intake

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other medicines that affect the kidneys
• Probenecid
• Cimetidine
• Other antiviral or immunosuppressant medicines
• Always inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop the medicine once symptoms improve?

No, complete the full course as prescribed, otherwise the infection may not clear fully and could return.

Can this medicine cure herpes completely?

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

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

• There is no major known interaction, but it is best to ask your doctor since alcohol can affect overall recovery.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.