Acyclovir Directions For Use

Generic Name: ACYCLOVIR (ay-SYE-kloe-veer)

Acyclovir is an antiviral used to treat shingles, chickenpox, or genital herpes. It may also be used to treat other conditions.

Follow the directions for using Acyclovir provided by your doctor. Take Acyclovir with food or milk if it upsets your stomach.

Store Acyclovir at room temperature, away from light and moisture.

To clean up your infection completely, continue taking Acyclovir for the full course of treatment even if you feel better in a few days. Do not miss any doses. If you miss a dose of Acyclovir, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

If you are using Acyclovir for genital herpes, begin using it as soon as you notice symptoms (pain, burning, blisters) of an infection.

Use a condom during sexual intercourse.

If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Acyclovir during pregnancy. If you are or may be pregnant, check with your doctor for instructions on using Acyclovir during pregnancy.

Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist.

Acyclovir is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeing while you are using Acyclovir, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or headache. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job.

Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions such as, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.