Cyclovir 400mg contains acyclovir which is an antiviral drug. It treats infections caused by certain types of viruses. However, it is not a cure for these infections.
It treats cold sores around the mouth, shingles, and chickenpox.
Also, this medication treats outbreaks of genital herpes.
It also helps reduce the number of future episodes.
The viruses that cause these infections continue to live in the body even between outbreaks. Acyclovir decreases the severity and length of these outbreaks. It helps the sores heal faster, keeps new sores from forming, and decreases pain/itching. This medication may also help reduce how long pain remains after the sores heal. In addition, in people with a weakened immune system, acyclovir can decrease the risk of the virus spreading to other parts of the body and causing serious infections.
Dosage
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 2 to 5 times a day. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless your doctor directs you otherwise.
This medication works best when started at the first sign of an outbreak, as directed by your doctor. It may not work as well if you delay treatment.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, the dosage is also based on weight.
This medication works best when the amount of drug in your body is kept at a constant level. Take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.
Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished. Do not change your dose, skip any doses, or stop this medication early without your doctor's approval.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.
Precautions
Before taking acyclovir, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or to valacyclovir or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of kidney problems & immune system problems.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Tell you health care professional that you are using acyclovir before having any immunizations/vaccinations (such as vaccines against the varicella virus).
Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug, especially kidney problems (change in the amount of urine, back/side pain), dizziness, drowsiness, and mental/mood changes (such as confusion, hallucinations, loss of consciousness).
Acyclovir does not protect against the spread of genital herpes. To lower the chance of giving herpes to your partner, do not have sexual contact during an outbreak or if you have symptoms. You can spread genital herpes even if you do not have symptoms. Always use an effective barrier method (latex or polyurethane condoms/dental dams) during all sexual activity. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This medication passes into breast ;milk, but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
