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Acyclovir

 

Acyclovir (generic Valtrex, Zovirax) Review

brand name: Zovirax
generic names: Aciclovir, Acyclovir

Why is Zovirax prescribed?

Zovirax liquid, capsules, and tablets are used in the treatment of certain infections with herpes viruses. These include genital herpes, shingles, and chickenpox. This drug may not be appropriate for everyone, and its use should be thoroughly discussed with your doctor. Zovirax ointment is used to treat initial episodes of genital herpes and certain herpes simplex infections of the skin and mucous membranes. Zovirax cream is used for herpes cold sores on the lips and face only.

Some doctors use Zovirax, along with other drugs, in the treatment of AIDS, and for unusual herpes infections such as those following kidney and bone marrow transplants.

What drug(s) may interact with acyclovir?

•fosphenytoin
•phenytoin
•probenecid
•zidovudine, nutritional supplements, including non-prescription medicines, AZT

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What is acyclovir?

Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Acyclovir will not cure herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection.

Acyclovir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses. Illnesses caused by herpes viruses include genital herpes, shingles, cold sores, and chicken pox.

Acyclovir may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

• Drying of skin in area of use
  
  
• Itching at the area of application
  
  
• Stinging or burning at the area of application
  
  
• Allergic inflammation of the skin (contact dermatitis)
  
  
• Flushing of the skin due to widening of the small blood vessels (erythema)
  
  

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer.

For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Most important fact about Zovirax (Valtrex)

Zovirax (Valtrex) does not cure herpes. However, it does reduce pain and may help the sores caused by herpes to heal faster. Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease. To reduce the chance of infecting your partner, forgo intercourse and other sexual contact while you have sores or any other symptom.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•dehydration
•neurological disease
•kidney disease
•seizures (convulsions)
•an unusual or allergic reaction to acyclovir, ganciclovir, valacyclovir, valganciclovir, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding