What is this medication for?
Acyclovir belongs to the family of medications known as antivirals. Acyclovir is used for the treatment and prevention of genital herpes. Acyclovir does not cure genital herpes. It is also used for the acute treatment of herpes zoster (shingles) and varicella (chickenpox). All of these infections are caused by viruses.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Acyclovir by Apotex is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Genital herpes: The usual recommended adult dose for genital herpes is 200 mg every 4 hours, 5 times daily for 10 days.
The dosage for suppressing genital herpes from recurring is 400 mg taken twice daily for up to 12 months. Alternatively, the doctor may prescribe 200 mg three to five times daily. You should start acyclovir as early as possible following the onset of signs and symptoms.
Shingles: The recommended dose for shingles is 800 mg every 4 hours, 5 times daily for 7 to 10 days. Treatment should be started within 72 hours of onset of the rash or lesions.
Chickenpox (children older than 2 years of age): The recommended dose for chickenpox is based on body weight. The usual dose is 20 mg per kilogram of body weight (not to exceed 800 mg) 4 times daily for 5 days. Therapy should be started within 24 hours of onset of the rash.
Finish all this medication, even if you have started to feel better.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Acyclovir should not be used by anyone who is allergic to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any ingredients of the medication.
