Acyclovir 400mg

Acyclovir 400mg — Uses and Benefits

Acyclovir 400mg is prescribed to treat viral infections caused by the herpes group of viruses.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Genital herpes, for treatment of an outbreak and to reduce recurrences
• Cold sores and other herpes simplex skin infections
• Chickenpox in certain patients as advised by the doctor
• Shingles (herpes zoster) caused by the varicella-zoster virus

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 and spreading further, helping the body's immune system control the infection

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not cure herpes infection completely; the virus stays in the body
• It is not effective against bacterial infections
• It is not used for common cold, flu, or other non-herpes viral infections
• It does not prevent transmission of herpes to others completely, so precautions are still needed

How to Use Acyclovir 400mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the same times each day
• It can be taken with or without food
• Swallow the tablet with a full glass of water
• Drink plenty of fluids during the day unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Complete the full course even if you start feeling better; stopping early may allow the infection to come back
• Try to start the medicine as soon as symptoms appear, as advised by your doctor, for best effect

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose 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 a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, set reminders or speak to your pharmacist for tips

STORAGE

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

Acyclovir 400mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

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

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Skin rash or itching
• Loss of appetite
• Joint pain

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing
• Severe skin reaction with blistering or peeling
• Reduced urine output or swelling of legs, suggesting kidney problems
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or signs of low blood counts
• Confusion, hallucinations, tremors, or seizures
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)

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

Acyclovir 400mg — 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 acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any ingredient in the tablet
• Have not consulted a doctor for your current symptoms

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney disease or reduced kidney function
• Are dehydrated or elderly
• Have a weakened immune system, such as from HIV or cancer treatment
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including supplements

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other medicines that affect the kidneys, such as certain antibiotics or NSAID painkillers
• Probenecid, which can increase acyclovir levels in the body
• Immunosuppressant drugs used after organ transplant
• Other antiviral medicines

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

There is no major known interaction, but alcohol can lower your energy and immune response during infection, so it is best to avoid it until you recover.

Will this medicine cure herpes completely?

No, it controls the outbreak and reduces symptoms and recurrences, but the virus remains dormant in the body afterward.

Can I take this medicine without a doctor's prescription?

• No, this is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only after a doctor evaluates your condition.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.