Acyclovir treats infections caused by herpes viruses including cold sores genital herpes and shingles.
It works by blocking the virus from copying itself which helps sores heal faster and pain ease sooner.
Starting treatment early matters most so begin at the first tingle or sign of a breakout.
Acyclovir comes as pills a topical cream and an intravenous form for severe infections.
Follow your doctor or pharmacist instructions exactly.
For most cold sores a short oral course started at first symptoms helps.
For genital herpes doctors may give a short course for outbreaks or a daily low dose to prevent recurrences.
Shingles and severe cases sometimes need higher doses or intravenous treatment in hospital.
Always finish the prescribed course even if symptoms improve.
Most people tolerate acyclovir well common side effects include nausea headache and tiredness.
Less common but serious problems involve the kidneys or the brain especially in older adults or people with kidney disease.
Drink enough water while taking the drug and tell your doctor about other medicines especially those that affect kidneys.
Pregnant or breastfeeding? Talk to your provider before taking acyclovir so they can weigh benefits and risks for you.
People with weakened immune systems may need longer treatment and closer follow up.
Daily suppressive therapy can reduce outbreaks and lower the chance of passing the virus to a partner but condoms still help reduce spread.
Only buy acyclovir from licensed pharmacies that require a prescription and show clear contact details.
Avoid websites that sell without a prescription or offer prices that look too good to be true.
Call your doctor if you have fever with rash severe pain trouble peeing sudden confusion or if you are pregnant and have an outbreak.
Quick tip start treatment early stay hydrated and keep your prescriber updated about other medicines or health changes to make acyclovir safer and more effective for you.
Typical adult oral dosing for cold sores might be one tablet five times a day for five days or a higher short burst like two tablets three times a day for one day depending on the prescription.
For genital herpes a common episodic adult dose is 200 mg five times a day for five to ten days but doctors may choose different schedules.
Kids get weight based doses so the doctor will calculate milligrams per kilogram Always confirm the right dose for children with a pediatrician.
A close alternative is valacyclovir which converts to acyclovir in the body and often allows less frequent dosing Ask your prescriber if that option makes sense for you.
Some drugs like probenecid can slow acyclovir clearance and raise blood levels so mention kidney drugs or high dose aspirin to your clinician.
If you keep getting outbreaks talk openly with your doctor about suppressive therapy lifestyle triggers and partner protection strategies.
Good care and early action make a big difference when treating herpes.
Navigating the world of prescription medications can be a tricky affair, especially when it involves ordering online. This guide focuses on Zovirax (Acyclovir), a go-to treatment for viral infections such as herpes simplex. It will walk you through understanding doses, managing side effects, spotting potential drug interactions, and ensuring you order safely online. Armed with critical insights and tips, you'll be empowered to use Zovirax wisely and maintain optimum health.