Acyclovir does not cure herpes, but it does relieve the pain and make the infection clear up faster.
Types of Acicvir Available:Acyclovir is taken by mouth, given by injection, or applied to the skin. The oral medication is available in 400mg and 800mg tablets.
How to Take:Take this medication as directed, with dosing times spaced evenly throughout the day. This medication can be taken with or without food. Acyclovir is best taken with a full glass of water.
Missed Doses:If you forget to take a dose of acyclovir, do not double the dose, but take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, however, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
Side Effects:Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms usually disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. Other common side effects include loss of appetite and headache. If these symptoms persist, please tell your doctor.
Rare side effects include: numbness or tingling of the hands or feet leg pain sore throat skin rash dizziness or weakness
Notify your doctor if you experience these effects.
Drug Interactions:Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any other prescription or over-the-counter medication you are taking, so you can be warned of interactions and prevent them.
Storage:Store at room temperature.
Precautions:Take this medication exactly as prescribed.
INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions including kidney problems, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. TAKE THIS MEDICINE with food or milk if it upsets your stomach. DRINKING EXTRA FLUIDS while you are taking this medicine is recommended. Check with your doctor or nurse for instructions. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature, away from light and moisture. TO CLEAR UP YOUR INFECTION COMPLETELY, continue taking this medicine for the full course of treatment even if you feel better in a few days. Do not miss any doses. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Cautions IF YOUR SYMPTOMS DO NOT IMPROVE WITHIN A FEW DAYS or if they become worse, check with your doctor. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED IN BREAST MILK. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.