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.