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Aciclovir

  • Aciclovir is used to treat viral infections
  • You must complete the course of aciclovir; otherwise your infection may return
  • Common side-effects associated with aciclovir are nausea, vomiting, itching and rashes

About aciclovir

Type of medicine Antiviral
Used for Viral infections
Also called Zovirax
Available as Injection, tablet, dispersible tablet and oral liquid form

Aciclovir is used to treat viral infections such as genital herpes, cold sores, shingles and chickenpox. It is also useful in preventing genital herpes and in preventing viral infections occurring in those with a lowered immune system.

Before taking aciclovir

Before taking aciclovir make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
  • If you suffer with kidney problems

How to take aciclovir

  • If you have been prescribed the dispersible tablet form of aciclovir they should be dissolved in a glass of water.
  • You must complete the course of aciclovir, otherwise your infection may return.
  • If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember and continue taking it at the usual times. If it is nearly time for your next dose, leave out the missed dose and take the next dose on time. If in doubt speak to your pharmacist, doctor or dentist.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • If you have been prescribed aciclovir for genital herpes (sexually transmitted infection), it is recommended that you wear a condom during sexual contact to prevent spreading the infection, even if treatment with aciclovir has begun
  • While you are taking aciclovir it is important that you drink plenty of fluids (six to eight pints of water a day).
  • Aciclovir may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight than it usually is. Try to avoid strong sunlight and wear a sunscreen of at least factor 15.

Can aciclovir cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine What can I do if I experience this
Nausea and vomiting See your pharmacist who may be able to recommend a suitable remedy. Drink plenty of liquid. Stick to simple foods such as dry toast.
Itching and/or rash If this becomes a problem then see your doctor.
Headache Ask you pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. If headache continues speak with your doctor.
Diarrhoea See your pharmacist who may be able to recommend a remedy. Drink plenty of fluids.

If you are short of breath, have a swollen tongue, face or lips, or have jaundice (yellowing of the skin) see your doctor as soon as possible.

How to store aciclovir

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light

Important information about all medicines


  • Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children
  • Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines
  • Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking
  • Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist
© EMIS 2007 DocID:
1401		 DocRef:
dils3238		 Last Updated:
25 Jun 2007		 Date of Next Review:
24 Jun 2009		 Version:
22




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PS - Health and Poverty

Perhaps the biggest cause of ill health in the world is poverty. Help to Make Poverty History. For example, why not lend some of your money to disadvantaged communities to enable them to trade their way out of poverty through schemes such as Shared Interest.

See also MAKEPOVERTYHISTORY North East for details and links to campaigns against poverty.

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