Aciclovir or acyclovir is an
antiviral drug commonly used for treating herpes simplex, a viral
infection. Considered a breakthrough anti viral therapy drug,
aciclovir is extremely selective and is low in cytotoxicity.
It is a deoxiguanosine analogue and requires a virus specific
enzyme for conversion to the active metabolite that inhibits DNA
synthesis and viral replication.
Brand Name: Zovirax
Iupac Name: 2-amino-9-(2-hydroxyethoxymethyl)-3H-purin-6-one
Dosage
Adults:Herpes simplex: 200 mg 5 times daily at 4 hours
interval for 5 days.
Herpes Zoster: 800 mg 5 times daily at 4 hours interval for
7 days.
Children Below 2 years: Herpes Simples: 100 mg 5 times daily
at 4 hours interval
Above 2 years: Same as adults
Contra- Indications: Hypersensitivity, glaucoma, depression,
psychiatric diseases
Side Effects
The drug has certain side effects, that can affect individuals in
different ways. The following are some of the side effects, that are
often associated with the drug:
- Orally causes headache and nausea
- CNS effects
- Intravenously causes sweating , fall in blood pressure
Contraindicated orally and parentally during pregnancy. May
reduce lactation
Disclaimer: The above information is for general
understanding of the visitor. Please consult a registered medical
practitioner before taking the aforesaid medicine.
