Aciclovir is a potent antiviral medication used for the treatment of various HSV and VZV infections, including genital herpes simplex, herpes simplex labialis, herpes zoster (shingles), acute chickenpox in immunocompromised patients, herpes simplex encephalitis, acute mucocutaneous HSV infections in immunocompromised patients, herpes simplex keratitis (ocular herpes), herpes simplex blepharitis, and Bell's Palsy. This medication works by stopping viral replication, but it does not eliminate the virus, is not a cure, and does not prevent transmission to others.
It is essential to use Aciclovir as directed by your healthcare provider. Take Aciclovir by mouth with or without food, and start therapy at the earliest sign or symptom of shingles or genital herpes (pain, burning, blisters). If you're treating an acute outbreak, continue using Aciclovir for the full course of treatment, even if you start feeling better within a few days. For suppressive therapy, Aciclovir works best when taken at the same times each day. If you miss a dose, 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 two doses at once.
Do not hesitate to ask your healthcare provider any questions you may have about how to use Aciclovir.
Store Aciclovir at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C), away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep Aciclovir out of the reach of children and away from pets.
Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.
Some medical conditions may interact with Aciclovir. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:
Some medicines may interact with Aciclovir. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicine, especially any of the following:
This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Aciclovir may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects.
Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:
Diarrhea; general body discomfort; headache; nausea/vomiting.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur:
Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); aggressive behavior; blood in the urine; confusion; decreased consciousness; decreased urination; hallucinations; lower back pain; mental or mood changes; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; seizures; unusual bruising or bleeding.
This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider.
Written: Laura Jenkins
Reviewed: Cristina Matera, MD