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What is acyclovir injection?
ACYCLOVIR (Zovirax®) treats certain types of viral infections, specifically herpes infections. Acyclovir will not cure herpes infections; it will help the sores heal faster and help to relieve the pain or discomfort. Sometimes acyclovir is given to help prevent the infection from coming back. Acyclovir also treats shingles and chickenpox infections. Generic acyclovir injections are available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• dehydration
• neurological disease
• kidney disease
• seizures (convulsions)
• an unusual or allergic reaction to acyclovir, ganciclovir, valacyclovir, valganciclovir, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Acyclovir injection is only for infusion into a vein. You will usually only receive acyclovir injection in a hospital or clinic setting by a trained health care professional. If you are receiving acyclovir injection at home, follow the instructions from your prescriber and/or home health care provider.
What drug(s) may interact with acyclovir?
• fosphenytoin
• phenytoin
• probenecid
• zidovudine, AZT
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking acyclovir?
Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve after 1 week.
Even though you are taking acyclovir, you can still pass herpes or chickenpox to another person.
Acyclovir works best when taken very early in the course of an infection. Begin treatment at the first signs of infection (such as tingling, itching, or pain in the affected area).
What side effects may I notice from receiving acyclovir?
The side effects you may notice from acyclovir depend upon the dose you are taking and the infection being treated; not all side effects occur in every patient.
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• confusion or hallucinations (i.e., seeing things that are not there)
• increased thirst
• redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
• reduced amount of urine passed
• seizures
• skin rash or hives
• stomach pain
• tremor
• unusual weakness or tiredness
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• headache
• increased sensitivity to the sun
• loss of appetite
• nausea, vomiting
Where can I keep my medicine?
Usually this medication is only given in a hospital or clinic setting. If you are giving acyclovir injection at home, consult your home health care agency for proper storage information.
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
