Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus in the body. It will not cure herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection.
Acyclovir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, such as genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chickenpox, as well as varicella (chickenpox), and cytomegalovirus.
Acyclovir may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information
Take acyclovir for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated.
Treatment with acyclovir should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).
Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with acyclovir. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people. Avoid touching an infected area and then touching your eyes. Wash your hands frequently to prevent passing the infection to others.
Before taking this medicine
You should not take this medicine if you are allergic to acyclovir or valacyclovir (Valtrex). You should not take acyclovir buccal tablets (Sitavig) if you are allergic to milk proteins.
To make sure acyclovir is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
kidney disease; or
a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine).
Acyclovir is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
Herpes can be passed to your baby during childbirth if you have a genital lesion when your baby is born. If you have genital herpes, it is very important to prevent herpes lesions during pregnancy. Take your medicine as directed to best control your infection.
Acyclovir passes into breast milk but is considered compatible with breastfeeding. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby while taking this medication.
Use in younger children is not recommended due to the potential risk of choking.
