💊 Acyclovir Tablet 200 mg
🔹 Description:
Acyclovir is a synthetic nucleoside analogue antiviral agent. It works by inhibiting viral DNA synthesis, thereby limiting the spread of the virus. It is most effective when started early during an outbreak.
- Each tablet contains: Acyclovir 200 mg
- Common brands: Zovirax, Acivir, Cyclovir, Herpex
💡 Advantages:
- Targets Herpes viruses with high specificity
- Reduces severity and duration of symptoms
- Helps prevent recurrences in immunocompromised patients
- Well-tolerated with a good safety profile
🦠 Uses / Indications:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections:
- Genital herpes
- Cold sores (Herpes labialis)
- Herpetic gingivostomatitis
- Herpes zoster (Shingles)
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Prophylaxis in immunocompromised patients (e.g., post-transplant, HIV)
📋 Dosage (Typical):
- HSV: 200 mg 5 times daily for 5–10 days
- Prophylaxis: 200 mg 4 times daily or 400 mg twice daily
- Shingles/Varicella: Higher dose (800 mg 5 times daily)
⚠️ Always follow your physician’s advice.
🧬 Nature / Pharmacokinetics:
- Class: Antiviral (anti-herpesvirus)
- Absorption: Oral bioavailability ~15–30%
- Elimination: Renal (requires dose adjustment in kidney disease)
📦 Storage:
- Store at room temperature (below 25–30°C)
- Protect from moisture and direct sunlight
- Keep out of reach of children
👩⚕️ Patient Advice:
- Take with or without food
- Complete full course, even if symptoms improve early
- Not a cure for herpes — reduces outbreaks and transmission
- Start early for best results (within 48–72 hours of symptom onset)
- Inform your doctor if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have kidney disease