ACYCLOVIR DRUG INFO
IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended
to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your
physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be
construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or
effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this
drug.
ACYCLOVIR - ORAL (ay-SYE-klo-veer)
COMMON
BRAND NAME(S): Zovirax
USES: This medication is used to
treat herpes infections of the skin, mouth, mucous membranes, genital
herpes, herpes zoster (shingles), and chickenpox in some individuals. This
medication does not cure herpes, but relieves the pain and may make the
infection clear faster.
HOW TO USE: Begin taking this
medication as soon as symptoms appear. Take this medication as directed.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Try to take the
medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. This
will ensure a constant blood level of the medication and is most
effective.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause stomach
upset, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness
or weakness. These effects should disappear in a few days as your body
adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become worse, inform your
doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: numbness or tingling of the
hands or feet, leg pain, sore throat, skin rash, change in the amount of
urine. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate
medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:
rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other
effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: This medication should be used cautiously
during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is not known if this
medication appears in breast milk. Consult with your doctor before
breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about
all the medicines you use (both prescription and nonprescription). Do not
start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local
poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose
may include sluggishness, change in amount of urine, loss of
consciousness, or seizures.
NOTES: Avoid sexual activity
while signs and symptoms of genital herpes are present to prevent
infecting your partner. Inform your doctor if this medication does not
appear to decrease the frequency or severity of recurrent infections.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take as soon as
remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead,
skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not
"double-up" the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room
temperature away from sunlight and moisture.
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