Drug Uses

This drug is used to treat outbreaks of herpes simplex on the skin (mouth, lips, genitals), outbreaks of shingles (herpes zoster) and chickenpox. This medication may also be used to help prevent outbreaks of herpes in patients with frequent outbreaks. To reduce the risk of spreading herpes to others, stop all sexual activity during an outbreak until it is completely healed. Always use effective barrier protections (e.g., latex or polyurethane condoms, dental dams) during all sexual activity.

How Taken

Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually 2 to 5 times daily or as directed by your doctor. It is very important to continue taking this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Unless your doctor directs you otherwise, drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. Dosage is based on your weight, kidney function, medical condition, and response to treatment. This medication works best when the amount of drug in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. This medication works best when started at the first sign of an outbreak as directed by your doctor.

Warnings/Precautions

Before taking acyclovir, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to valacyclovir; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, immune system problems. This drug may rarely make you dizzy or drowsy. Use caution while driving, using machinery, or doing any activities that require alertness. Limit alcoholic beverages. Kidney function declines as you grow older. This medication is removed by the kidneys. Therefore, caution is advised when using this drug in older adults because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug, especially to dizziness, confusion, and sleepiness. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk. This product may cause undesirable effects in a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Possible Side Effects

Headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: unusual tiredness, fast/pounding heartbeat, easy bruising/bleeding, new signs of infection, bloody/dark urine, severe stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, change in the amount of urine, mental/mood changes, loss of consciousness, vision changes, seizures.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include: change in the amount of urine, seizures, extreme tiredness, loss of consciousness, agitation.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.