Acivir Pills contain the active ingredient acyclovir, a nucleoside analogue DNA polymerase inhibitor specifically designed to combat herpes virus infections. This oral formulation is a first-line antiviral medication prescribed for the management of initial and recurrent episodes of herpes simplex and herpes zoster. It works by inhibiting viral DNA replication, thereby reducing the severity and duration of outbreaks. Proper use under medical supervision can significantly decrease viral shedding and the frequency of recurrences.

Features

• Contains 200mg, 400mg, or 800mg acyclovir as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
• Available as film-coated tablets for ease of swallowing and precise dosing
• Manufactured under GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) conditions ensuring pharmaceutical quality
• Bioavailability of approximately 15-30%, with peak plasma concentrations occurring 1.5-2.5 hours post-administration
• Half-life of 2.5-3.3 hours in adults with normal renal function
• Excreted primarily unchanged in urine via glomerular filtration and tubular secretion

Benefits

• Reduces healing time for herpes lesions by inhibiting viral replication
• Decreases the duration of pain associated with acute herpes zoster infections
• Lowers the frequency of recurrent genital herpes outbreaks with suppressive therapy
• Minimizes risk of viral transmission to partners when used as directed
• Helps prevent herpes-related complications in immunocompromised patients
• Provides systemic antiviral coverage with convenient oral administration

Common use

Acivir Pills are indicated for the treatment of herpes simplex virus infections (HSV-1 and HSV-2), including initial and recurrent genital herpes, herpes labialis (cold sores), and mucocutaneous herpes in immunocompromised patients. They are also approved for the treatment of acute herpes zoster (shingles) and for chronic suppressive therapy to prevent recurrent herpes infections. Off-label uses may include prophylaxis in transplant recipients and management of herpes encephalitis, though intravenous formulations are typically preferred for severe systemic infections.

Dosage and direction

Dosage varies based on indication and patient factors. For genital herpes: 200mg five times daily for 10 days (initial episode) or 400mg three times daily for 5 days (recurrent episodes). For chronic suppression: 400mg twice daily. For herpes zoster: 800mg five times daily for 7-10 days. For immunocompromised patients: 400mg five times daily. Administer with a full glass of water, with or without food. Dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with renal impairment (creatinine clearance <50 mL/min). Complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve earlier.

Precautions

Use with caution in elderly patients and those with pre-existing renal impairment. Maintain adequate hydration during therapy to prevent crystalluria. Monitor renal function during treatment, especially with high doses or prolonged therapy. Neurological symptoms should be monitored closely in patients with underlying neurological disorders. Not recommended during pregnancy unless potential benefits outweigh risks. Breastfeeding should be reconsidered during treatment as acyclovir is excreted in human milk. Use with caution in patients receiving nephrotoxic drugs concurrently.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any component of the formulation. Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <10 mL/min) without appropriate dosage adjustment. Patients with a history of severe neurological reactions to antiviral nucleoside analogues. Not indicated for the treatment of non-herpetic viral infections. Should not be used for meningitis or encephalitis without proper diagnostic confirmation and specialist supervision.

Possible side effects

Common side effects (≥1%): nausea (8-12%), vomiting (2-5%), diarrhea (2-5%), headache (5-13%), dizziness (2-4%). Less common: fatigue, skin rash, abdominal pain, elevated liver enzymes. Rare but serious: acute renal failure, neurological symptoms (agitation, confusion, hallucinations, seizures), thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/hemolytic uremic syndrome, anaphylaxis. Most side effects are dose-related and reversible upon discontinuation. Report any severe or persistent adverse reactions to a healthcare provider immediately.

Drug interaction

Probenecid significantly increases acyclovir plasma concentrations by reducing renal clearance. Concurrent use with other nephrotoxic drugs (aminoglycosides, cyclosporine, NSAIDs) may increase risk of renal impairment. Zidovudine may potentiate fatigue and lethargy. Theophylline clearance may be slightly reduced. No clinically significant interactions with oral contraceptives have been documented. Monitor for increased toxicity when administered with drugs that compete for renal tubular secretion.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintain regular dosing intervals to ensure consistent antiviral coverage. For patients on suppressive therapy, occasional missed doses are unlikely to significantly impact efficacy, but consistent adherence is recommended for optimal outbreak prevention.

Overdose

Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, lethargy, seizures, and renal impairment. Management includes gastric lavage if presented early, adequate hydration, and supportive care. Hemodialysis significantly enhances acyclovir removal (approximately 60% reduction in plasma concentrations during a 6-hour dialysis session). Monitor renal function and neurological status closely. There is no specific antidote; treatment is symptomatic and supportive.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in the original container. Protect from light and moisture. Keep tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Do not transfer to alternative containers as this may affect stability. Discard any tablets that show signs of physical deterioration.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Acivir Pills are prescription medications and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual response to treatment may vary. Always consult with a physician for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Do not self-medicate or adjust dosage without medical guidance.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that acyclovir reduces healing time by 3-4 days in initial genital herpes and by 1-2 days in recurrent episodes. Suppressive therapy shows 70-80% reduction in recurrence frequency. Herpes zoster treatment initiated within 72 hours of rash onset reduces acute pain duration by approximately 50%. Patient satisfaction surveys indicate high efficacy ratings for symptom control, though some report gastrointestinal discomfort with higher doses. Long-term safety data support use for up to 10 years of continuous suppressive therapy.