What is Acyclovir Topical ?
Acyclovir topical (for the skin) is an antiviral drug that treats skin conditions caused by herpesvirus.
Acyclovir cream for topical use helps treat sores that are cold on the lips and on the face. Acyclovir topically applied ointment is utilized to treat lesions of genital herpes.
The cure for the herpes virus isn't available. Acyclovir cannot stop the development of symptoms in the future. Acyclovir topical is also employed for other purposes that are not covered in this guideline for medication.
Side effects of Acyclovir Topical
Contact a medical professional immediately. If you are experiencing symptoms that are warning signs of an allergic response, like hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of your lips, face, and tongue.
Adverse Effects:
- Dry, cracked, or peeling lips;
- Dryness or flaking on treated skin.
- Burning sensation or itching after the medication is applied.
This isn't a complete list of possible side effects, and other side effects could be present. Contact your doctor to seek medical advice on adverse effects. You can report any side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Follow the directions on your prescription label and on the label of your package. Be sure to inform your healthcare professionals about your medical issues, allergies, and any medications you take.
Before You take this drug
Acyclovir should not be used as a topical solution if you're allergic to the acyclovir drug or the drug valacyclovir (Valtrex).
Acyclovir topical is not a product that has been approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years of age.
Discuss with your physician any time you've had an insufficient immune system (caused by illness or taking certain medications).
It isn't known if this medication will cause harm to an unborn child. The herpes virus may be transmitted from an infected mother to her infant when she is pregnant. If you are suffering from herpes genitalis, it is crucial to avoid herpes-related lesions during pregnancy to ensure you don't develop genital lesions when the baby arrives.
It is not recommended to feed your baby if you have a herpes lesion or a cyst within or near your breast.
How to take topical acyclovir
Follow the instructions on your prescription label, and review all medication guides and instructions. Follow the medication exactly as prescribed. Do not chew it. Topical medicines are meant for use only on the skin.
Take acyclovir tablets as soon as you can after the initial signs of symptoms (such as burning, tingling, or blisters). Cleanse your hands prior to and after applying the medicine. Apply just enough cream to be able to cover your painful or tingly areas.
Make sure to apply only enough ointment to fully protect the genital lesion(s). Use a glove or finger cot or an ointment swab made of cotton when applying the ointment to prevent spreading the virus to other body parts as well as to others.
Acyclovir topical cream is generally applied five times per day for a period of four days. Acyclovir topical ointment can be applied six times a day for seven days. Follow the instructions of your physician for dosage extremely carefully. Take this medication for the prescribed length of time, even if symptoms do not improve immediately.
Keep at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
Details on Dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Herpes Simplex Labialis:
5% Cream:
Apply the cream to the lips or face five times per day for four days.
Begin treatment as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms and signs of herpes labialis.
Use: To treat recurrent herpes laboratoryialis (cold sores) in immunocompromised adults.
Usual Adult Dose for Herpes Simplex—Mucocutaneous/Immunocompromised Host:
5% Ointment:
Apply the patch at least every three hours, six times per day over seven days.
The treatment should begin at the earliest possible time, following the onset of symptoms and signs.
Comments:
The amount of dose per application may vary based on the area of the lesion and should be approximately 12 inches of ointment per square inch on the surface.
A rubber or finger glove is recommended when applying the ointment in order to prevent autoinoculation to other body parts and spread to other people.
Uses: In the treatment of genital herpes that first appeared and for the treatment of minor, non-life-threatening mucocutaneous HSV infections in immunocompromised adult patients
Usual Adult Dose for Herpes Simplex:
5% Ointment:
Apply to affected areas at least every three hours, six times per day over seven days.
The treatment should begin at the earliest possible time, following the onset of symptoms and signs.
Comments:
The dose per application can vary based on the size of the lesion. It should roughly be 12 inches of ointment for each square inch of surface.
A finger cot or a rubber glove is recommended when applying the ointment in order to prevent autoinoculation of other body areas and spread to other people.
Uses: In the treatment of the first genital herpes outbreak and for the treatment of minor, non-life-threatening mucocutaneous HSV infections in immunocompromised adult patients
Usual Pediatric Dose for Herpes Simplex Labialis:
12-year-olds or older:
5% Cream:
Apply the cream to the lips or face five times per day for four days.
Begin treatment as soon as you can following the onset of symptoms and signs of herpes labialis.
Use: To treat Herpes labialis recurrently (cold sores) in children aged 12 or more.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medication as quickly as you can; however, take a break from your missed dose if it's nearing the time to take the next dose. Do not take two doses at once.
What happens if I overdose?
Acyclovir in excess isn't expected to be a danger. Get medical attention immediately or contact the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if you have accidentally swallowed the drug.
What should be avoided?
Be careful not to get this medication into your nose, eyes, or mouth. If it does happen, clean it off with water. If you are treating an open sore that is cold, make sure to apply the medicine only to the outer portion of your lips.
Don't use any other medication on the areas that you treat with acyclovir cream unless your doctor has told you to. The use of acyclovir as a topical medication will not stop you from spreading the genital herpes virus to others. Herpes infections can be contagious and can cause infection in other people while you are taking Acyclovir.
Beware of sexual contact or use a condom made of latex to prevent transmitting the virus to other people. Be careful not to let infected areas come into contact with people. Avoid touching an affected area, and after that, avoid touching your eyes. Make sure to wash your hands regularly to stop the spread of the infection.
Interaction with other drugs
The skin care treatment is unlikely to be affected by any other medications that you are taking. But there are many drugs that interact with eachhother. nform your health care providers about the medications you take, including medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, and herbal remedies.
