What is Acyclovir?
Acyclovir can be described as an antiviral medication. It can slow the spread and growth of the herpes zoster virus in the body. Acyclovir cannot cure herpes; however, it may help reduce signs of the virus.Acyclovir is used to treat herpes viruses like herpes genitalis, cold sores, shingles, and chicken pox.
Sitavig buccal tablets are intended for the treatment of only lip sores that are cold. Sitavig is not a treatment for herpes genitals.Acyclovir can also be used for reasons not mentioned in this guideline.
Warnings
Follow the directions on your prescription label and the package. Inform your healthcare professionals about your allergies, medical conditions, and any other medications you take.
Before you Take this Drug
Acyclovir should not be taken when there is a reaction to Acyclovir or Valacyclovir (Valtrex). Sitavig is not recommended for buccal tablets if you're intolerant to the milk protein.
Inform your doctor if you ever had:
-
Kidney disease kidney disease
-
A weak immune system (caused by illness or taking certain medicines).
Consult your physician if you are nursing or pregnant.
Herpes can pass to your child during birth if you suffer from genital oedema at the time your baby is born. If you have genital herpes, it's vital to keep your eyes open for the development of herpes lesions during pregnancy. Use your medication as directed to control your infection.
It might not be safe to breastfeed while taking this medication. Consult your physician regarding any risks.Acyclovir is not recommended for children younger than 2 years.
How to take Acyclovir?
Follow the directions on the prescription label and review all medication guides and instruction sheets. Follow the medication exactly as prescribed.
Begin taking acyclovir as quickly as you can following the first manifestation of symptoms (such as burning, tingling, or blisters). Begin taking Sitavig within an hour from the time you first begin to notice symptoms but before the cold sore begins to appear.Be sure to read and adhere to any instructions for use that are included in your medication. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor for clarification if you are unsure of these directions.
Do not chew, crush, chew, or swallow the buccal tablet. Place the flat surface of the tablet on your upper gums, on exactly the same part of your mouth where you have your sore. Let the tablet dissolve in your mouth for the duration of the day. You can take a drink and eat normally while you have the buccal tablet in your mouth.Don't give an acyclovir buccal tablet to a child who is young, as choking may happen.Make sure to shake off the oral suspension (liquid) prior to determining the dose. Utilize the dosing syringe that comes with it or a dosage-measuring device (not an ordinary spoon).
Acyclovir dosages are determined by weight (especially for teenagers and children). Your dose needs may change if you gain or lose weight.Drink plenty of fluids while you take acyclovir to keep your kidneys functioning effectively.
Make sure to take this medication for the entire prescribed amount of time, even if symptoms do not improve immediately. The absence of doses could increase the likelihood of the virus developing resistance to treatment.Lesions caused by the herpes virus must be treated as cleanly and dryly as they can be. Wearing loose clothing can aid in preventing the irritation of lesions.Place it in a cool, dry place far from heat and moisture.
What Happens If I Miss a Dose?
You should take the medication as quickly as you are able, but do not take any missed doses if it's nearing the time to take the next dose. Don't take two doses at once.
What Happens If I Overdose?
Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the Poison Help line toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.
What Should be Avoided?
Avoid cleaning the teeth, chewing gum, or wearing an upper denture if you've got a buccal tablet inside your mouth. Rinse your mouth with water gently.
Take plenty of water in order to keep your mouth moist.
Herpes infections can be transmitted and spread to other people, even when you are receiving treatment with acyclovir. Beware of letting the affected areas touch others. Avoid touching the affected area and then rubbing your eyes. Make sure to wash your hands regularly to ensure that you don't transmit the infection to others.
Acyclovir does make it impossible for you to pass genital herpes to your companion. Avoid sexual intercourse when you are suffering from active lesions or are experiencing the first signs of an outbreak. Genital herpes could be transmitted by "viral shedding" from your skin, even if you don't have signs.
Side effects of Acyclovir
See a doctor immediately. Get medical attention immediately if you notice symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of your lips, face, or tongue.
Acyclovir could cause severe adverse effects. Consult your physician right away. If you suffer from:
-
Bleeding or bruising spots, red or purple spots on your skin
-
Shifts in behavior
-
Hallucinations, confusion,
-
Symptoms of kidney problems: little or no urine; pain and difficulty urinating; swelling of your ankles or feet; and feeling short of breath or tired.
Common side effects of acyclovir can include:
-
Mild irritation of the skin;
-
Rash, itching;
-
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
-
Headache
-
Discomfort in the mouth when taking an Acyclovir buccal tablet.
This isn't a complete list of all the side effects. Other effects may also be present. Contact your doctor for advice regarding medical effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Interaction with Other Drugs
Acyclovir could affect your kidneys, and this is especially true when you are also taking specific medications for osteoporosis, cancer, infections, organ transplant rejection, digestive issues, high blood pressure, or arthritis pain (including Advil, Motrin, and Aleve).
Other medications may interact with the acyclovir drug, such as prescription or other over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. Discuss with your doctor the medicines you are currently taking as well as any medications you are about to start or stop taking.
