Acivir Pills contain the active ingredient acyclovir, a nucleoside analogue DNA polymerase inhibitor specifically designed to combat herpes virus infections. This oral formulation is a cornerstone in the management of both initial and recurrent episodes of herpes simplex and herpes zoster. By interfering with viral DNA replication, Acivir Pills effectively reduce the severity and duration of outbreaks, providing symptomatic relief and decreasing viral shedding. Proper use under medical supervision ensures optimal therapeutic outcomes while minimizing potential adverse effects.

Features

• Contains 200mg, 400mg, or 800mg acyclovir as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
• Available as film-coated tablets for ease of administration
• Manufactured under strict GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards
• Exhibits high bioavailability when taken orally
• Specifically targets herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, and varicella-zoster virus

Benefits

• Significantly shortens healing time for herpes lesions and blisters
• Reduces the duration of viral shedding, lowering transmission risk
• Alleviates pain and discomfort associated with acute outbreaks
• Decreases the frequency of recurrent episodes with prophylactic use
• Minimizes the risk of complications in immunocompromised patients
• Provides convenient oral administration compared to topical alternatives

Common use

Acivir Pills are primarily indicated for the treatment of infections caused by herpes viruses. This includes genital herpes (herpes simplex virus type 2), cold sores (herpes simplex virus type 1), shingles (herpes zoster), and chickenpox (varicella-zoster virus). They are used both for initial episodes and recurrent outbreaks. In immunocompromised patients, including those with HIV or undergoing chemotherapy, Acivir Pills are employed for both treatment and prophylaxis against herpes infections. Some off-label uses include prevention of herpes infections in transplant recipients and management of herpes encephalitis, though these applications require specialist supervision.

Dosage and direction

Dosage must be individualized based on the specific infection, renal function, and immunologic status of the patient. For genital herpes: 200mg five times daily for 10 days for initial episodes; 200mg two to five times daily for 5 days for recurrences. For chronic suppression: 400mg twice daily. For herpes zoster: 800mg five times daily for 7-10 days. For chickenpox in immunocompetent patients: 20mg/kg (up to 800mg) four times daily for 5 days. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water, with or without food. Maintain adequate hydration during treatment. Dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with renal impairment (creatinine clearance <50 mL/min).

Precautions

Use with caution in elderly patients due to potential age-related renal impairment. Monitor renal function before and during treatment, especially with high-dose regimens. Maintain adequate hydration to prevent crystalluria and nephropathy. Use cautiously in patients with pre-existing neurological conditions, as neurotoxicity has been reported. Pregnancy Category B: use only if clearly needed after risk-benefit assessment. Acyclovir is excreted in breast milk; consider discontinuing nursing during treatment. Pediatric use should be based on body weight and renal function. Not recommended for neonates without specialist consultation.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any component of the formulation. Patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <10 mL/min) without appropriate dosage adjustment. History of severe neurotoxic reactions to acyclovir. Concomitant use with other nephrotoxic drugs in patients with compromised renal function. Not indicated for the treatment of infections other than those caused by susceptible herpes viruses.

Possible side effect

Common: nausea (5-8%), vomiting (2-3%), diarrhea (2-3%), headache (2-5%). Less common: dizziness, fatigue, skin rash, pruritus. Rare but serious: acute renal failure, crystalluria, neurotoxicity (agitation, confusion, hallucinations, tremors, seizures), thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/hemolytic uremic syndrome, hepatitis, anaphylaxis. Hematologic abnormalities including leukopenia and thrombocytopenia may occur, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Most side effects are dose-dependent and reversible upon discontinuation.

Drug interaction

Probenecid significantly increases acyclovir plasma concentrations and half-life by reducing renal clearance. Concurrent use with other nephrotoxic drugs (aminoglycosides, cyclosporine, NSAIDs, vancomycin) may increase the risk of renal impairment. Zidovudine may potentiate fatigue and lethargy. Acyclovir may increase plasma levels of drugs eliminated by active renal secretion through competition for tubular secretion. Monitor for increased toxicity when administered with other neurotoxic drugs. No significant interactions with cytochrome P450 enzyme system.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one. Maintain the regular dosing schedule. For patients on five-times-daily regimens, if remembered within 2 hours of the missed dose, take immediately; if later, skip and resume normal schedule. Consistent dosing is important for maintaining effective antiviral concentrations.

Overdose

Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, lethargy, seizures, renal impairment, and crystalluria. Management includes gastric lavage if presented early, followed by supportive care and hydration to ensure adequate renal function and prevent crystalluria. Hemodialysis significantly enhances acyclovir elimination (reducing plasma half-life from 3 hours to approximately 2.5 hours during dialysis). Monitor renal function, neurological status, and electrolyte balance. There is no specific antidote; treatment is symptomatic and supportive.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in the original container. Protect from light and moisture. Keep tightly closed. Do not store in bathroom medicine cabinet due to humidity fluctuations. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Do not transfer to other containers as this may affect stability. Proper disposal of unused medication through take-back programs is recommended.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Acivir Pills are prescription medications and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual response to treatment may vary. Always consult with a physician for proper diagnosis, dosage, and treatment recommendations. Do not self-medicate or adjust dosage without medical consultation. The manufacturer is not liable for any adverse effects resulting from improper use or misinterpretation of this information.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that acyclovir reduces healing time by 1-2 days in recurrent genital herpes and by 2-3 days in herpes zoster. Meta-analyses show 70-80% reduction in recurrence frequency with suppressive therapy. Patient reports indicate high satisfaction with symptom relief, though some note gastrointestinal discomfort with higher doses. Healthcare professionals consistently rate acyclovir as a first-line treatment for herpes infections due to its established efficacy and safety profile. Long-term studies confirm maintained effectiveness with appropriate dosing adjustments.