Chemical Name: ACYCLOVIR (ay-SYE-kloe-veer)
Common uses
Acyclovir is an antiviral used to treat shingles or chickenpox. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your physician.
Prior to Use
Let your physician or pharmacist know about any other medications -- prescription or over-the-counter -- that you are using. Inform your physician of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.
Instructions for Use
Follow your physician's instructions for taking Acyclovir. Take Acyclovir with food or milk if it upsets your stomach. Store Acyclovir at room temperature, away from light and moisture. In order to completely clear up your infection, continue taking Acyclovir for the full course of treatment even if you feel better in a few days. Make sure that you do not skip a dose of Acyclovir. Should you skip or forget a dose of Acyclovir, begin using it immediately. If it is almost time for your next dose, omit the skipped dose and continue to follow your original dosing schedule. Never take more than one dose at the same time.
Warnings
If your symptoms do not improve within a few days and consult your physician if they worsen. Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, consult your pharmacist or physician . Acyclovir is excreted in breast milk if you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Acyclovir, consult your pharmacist or physician to discuss the risks to your baby.
Potential Side Effects
Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or headache. Consult your physician if they do not go away or if they bring you difficulties. Let your physician, pharmacist, or nurse know if you experience any side-effects not listed here.
Drug interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job.
In Case of Overdose
Contact a poison control center or visit an emergency room immediately, if you think you have overdosed.
Additional information
Do not let anyone else use Acyclovir. Do not take Acyclovir to treat health conditions other than what it was prescribed for. Store this and all medication away from the reach of children. If using Acyclovir for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
