The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Please consult your healthcare professional before using this or any other prescription or non-prescription medication.

Uses of Acyclovir

Acyclovir is an antiviral used to treat shingles, chickenpox, or genital herpes. Acyclovir may also be used to treat other conditions.

Acyclovir Directions

Follow the directions for using Acyclovir provided by your doctor. Take Acyclovir with food or milk if it upsets your stomach. Store Acyclovir at room temperature, away from light and moisture. To clean up your infection completely, continue taking Acyclovir for the full course of treatment even if you feel better in a few days. Do not miss any doses. If you miss a dose of Acyclovir, 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 2 doses at once.

Acyclovir Side Effects

Side effects of Acyclovir, that may go away during treatment, include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or headache. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Acyclovir Precautions

If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they become worse, check with your doctor. If you are using Acyclovir for genital herpes, begin using it as soon as you notice symptoms (pain, burning, blisters) of an infection. Use a condom during sexual intercourse. If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Acyclovir during pregnancy. If you are or may be pregnant, check with your doctor for instructions on using Acyclovir during pregnancy. Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. Acyclovir is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Acyclovir, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Acyclovir Drug Interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job.

Missed Dose of Acyclovir

Try to take each dose at the scheduled time. If you miss a dose of Acyclovir , take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Acyclovir Notes

Acyclovir is most effective if it is started within 48 hours of when the rash first appears.

Acyclovir storage

Store Acyclovir at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 to 25 degrees C) away from heat and light. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.