Acyclovir 800mg

Acyclovir 800mg — Uses and Benefits

Acyclovir 800mg is used to treat viral infections caused by the herpes family of viruses.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of shingles (herpes zoster)
• Treatment of chickenpox in certain patients as advised by doctor
• Treatment of genital herpes outbreaks
• Sometimes used for recurrent herpes infections as directed by doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It stops the herpes virus from multiplying inside the body
• This helps reduce the severity and duration of the infection
• It helps skin lesions and blisters heal faster
• It reduces pain and discomfort associated with the outbreak

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not treat bacterial infections
• It does not cure herpes infection completely; virus stays dormant in body
• It is not effective against common cold or flu viruses
• It is not a substitute for other prescribed antiviral treatments unless advised by doctor

How to Use Acyclovir 800mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually with water
• Can be taken with or without food, unless advised otherwise
• Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medicine
• Take doses at evenly spaced times as instructed
• Complete the full course even if you feel better

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• Try to maintain regular dosing intervals as advised by your doctor

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
• Dispose of unused medicine safely as per local guidelines

Acyclovir 800mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Tiredness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach pain
• Skin rash
• Joint pain

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, throat or difficulty breathing
• Reduced urination or blood in urine
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Severe confusion, hallucinations or seizures
• Yellowing of skin or eyes

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

Acyclovir 800mg — 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 or valacyclovir
• Have had a severe reaction to this medicine in the past

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney disease or reduced kidney function
• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
• Are breastfeeding
• Are elderly or dehydrated
• Have a weakened immune system

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other medicines affecting the kidneys
• Probenecid
• Certain immunosuppressant medicines
• Other antiviral medicines

Always inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop taking it once symptoms improve?

No, complete the full course as prescribed even if you feel better, to prevent the infection from returning.

Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

It should only be used in pregnancy if your doctor decides the benefit outweighs the risk, so consult your doctor first.

Does it cure herpes permanently?

• No, it controls outbreaks and reduces symptoms, but the virus remains in the body and can reactivate later.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.