Aciclovir

Aciclovir (also known as Acyclovir) is an antiviral medication used to treat herpes simplex viruses (HSV). This includes genital herpes (HSV-2) and cold sores (HSV-1). It also treats varicella-zoster virus (VZV, herpes zoster), which causes chickenpox and shingles.

It is an oral prescription medicine that offers relief from unpleasant blisters, as well as significantly reduces the duration of your outbreak. Aciclovir can also help to reduce the chances of an infection returning, making it a preventative treatment useful for those who have weakened immune systems.

What is Aciclovir used for?

Cold sores

Genital herpes

Chickenpox & shingles

Aciclovir is known as an antiviral drug. It works by first becoming incorporated into the viral DNA and then preventing the virus from multiplying and making more of itself. This stops the virus from growing and spreading.

Aciclovir is best used as soon as possible after the symptoms begin to appear. It helps to stop the replication of the virus which reduces the severity and duration of symptoms. Starting treatment early can also help speed up the healing process, which reduces overall discomfort. It can also be used to prevent outbreaks from occurring.

Aciclovir tablets are safe for most adults to use to treat infections caused by HSV and VZV. However, if you have any preexisting medical conditions you should speak to your doctor before taking it.

Who cannot take it?

This medication may not be appropriate for certain people. Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to Aciclovir, Valaciclovir or any of the other ingredients in this medicine.

It is recommended that you speak to a healthcare professional if you have kidney problems, are over 65 years old, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, before taking this medication.

The dose you need will depend on the severity and type of herpes infection.

The 200mg dose is used most often as it is a lower dosage, which means it can be taken multiple times throughout the week. This is the dose frequently prescribed for the treatment and prevention of genital herpes and cold sores outbreaks.

The 800mg is usually prescribed to people with chickenpox, shingles, or recurrent genital herpes.

You can also be prescribed a 400mg dose to treat genital herpes and cold sores, however, a lower dose of 200mg is effective for the majority of people.

Aciclovir is taken in different doses depending on the strain of herpes virus it's required to treat. Although a doctor may adjust the dosage slightly, below is the guideline to follow.

Your prescribed course of treatment may also differ depending on whether you are taking it to treat symptoms or as a preventative.

Here are the typical dosages for different herpes viruses:

Whilst above are the typical doses for each purpose, make sure to always take the exact dose prescribed by your doctor. You may require a dosage adjustment based on your medical history and depending on whether you have problems with your immune system.

To take this medicine, swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember and then take your next dose at your usual time. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

Just like all prescription medications, Aciclovir can cause side effects, however, this is generally rare and if so, the side effects tend to be manageable.

Common side effects may affect up to 1 in 10 people and are listed in the table below:

More severe side effects such as paralysis, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), kidney pain or hepatitis (inflammation of the liver), have been documented but are extremely rare. These are reported to affect up to 1 in 10,000 people. If you experience any severe side effects seek immediate medical attention.

For a full list of Aciclovir's side effects, refer to the patient information leaflet included with your medication. It is also available to be downloaded from this page.

Are there any interactions?

You should always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any medication you are taking. This includes prescription medicines, herbal products, supplements and over-the-counter medicines.

The following medications are more likely to react with Aciclovir:

• probenecid (for gout)
• cimetidine (for stomach ulcers)
• mycophenolate mofetil (for prevention of organ rejection after a transplant)

For a full list of medications Aciclovir interacts with, please consult the patient information leaflet.

You can buy Aciclovir tablets online here at euroClinix. All you have to do is fill out an online consultation form which will be reviewed by one of our registered doctors. If they find you suitable for treatment, our pharmacy will dispense and dispatch your medication discreetly with next-day delivery.

Can I buy Aciclovir tablets over the counter?

Aciclovir tablets are only available on prescription. However, this medication is available in topical forms (e.g. Aciclovir cream) over-the-counter to treat cold sore infections.

It is sold as a cream under several brand names, Zovirax being the most notable, and contains 5% of Aciclovir. It can be bought in pharmacies or supermarkets.