IMPORTANT NOTE:
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. Consult your healthcare
professional before using this drug.
ACYCLOVIR - ORAL
(ay-SYE-klo-veer)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S):
Zovirax
USES:
This medication is used to treat herpes infections of the
skin, mouth, mucous membranes, genital herpes, herpes zoster
(shingles), and chickenpox in some individuals. This medication
does not cure herpes, but relieves the pain and may make the
infection clear faster.
HOW TO USE:
Begin taking this medication as soon as symptoms
appear.
Take this medication as directed. Ask your doctor or
pharmacist if you have any questions. Try to take the medication
at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. This
will ensure a constant blood level of the medication and is most
effective.
SIDE EFFECTS:
This medication may cause stomach upset, loss of
appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness or
weakness. These effects should disappear in a few days as your
body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become worse,
inform your doctor.
Notify your doctor if you experience: numbness or tingling of
the hands or feet, leg pain, sore throat, skin rash, change in
the amount of urine.
An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek
immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic
reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble
breathing.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your
doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS:
This medication should be used cautiously during
pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is not known if this
medication appears in breast milk. Consult with your doctor
before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Inform your doctor about all the medicines
you use (both prescription and nonprescription).
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist
approval.
OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison
control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of
overdose may include sluggishness, change in amount of urine,
loss of consciousness, or seizures.
NOTES:
Avoid sexual activity while signs and symptoms of genital
herpes are present to prevent infecting your partner.
Inform your doctor if this medication does not appear to
decrease the frequency or severity of recurrent infections.
MISSED DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do
not take if it is almost 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.
STORAGE:
Store at room temperature away from sunlight and
moisture.
