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How quickly do acyclovir tablets work? Acyclovir tablets: patient reviews

Viruses are tiny pathogenic organisms that cause the most various diseases. Viruses that get inside a cell are especially dangerous, since it is impossible to destroy them completely - they are securely hidden cell membrane. It is to combat them that the drug Acyclovir was created. For decades now, it and its analogues have been prescribed for herpesvirus diseases - human infections by a family of viruses that live in the bodies of 90% of the world's population. Today we will look at the drug "Acyclovir", instructions for use, price and reviews about it.

Herpesvirus family

The family consists of 8 viruses, including:

Epstein-Barr
Cytomegalovirus.
Varicella zoster virus
Herpes virus types 6, 7 and 8.

These viruses live in the body for years, causing many concomitant diseases with weakened immunity of the patient. At the same time, no one is guilty of seemingly simple herpes, which is diagnosed in almost the entire population of our planet. But it would be worth it, since it causes serious complications - some of its strains can even cause cancer. Today, doctors associate the herpesvirus family with miscarriages, congenital deformities, and immunodeficiency conditions. Fortunately, not everyone gets such an infection. aggressive form, because everything depends on the strain of the virus and the state of the immune system. That is why herpes, if it has already entered the body, is important to constantly monitor and prevent a decrease in the body’s defenses.

What is Acyclovir?

"Acyclovir" is a synthetic analogue of an acyclic purine nucleoside (a component of DNA). The main function of the drug is the antiviral effect, which Acyclovir selectively exhibits against herpes viruses. It invades the cell (in which the virus has already “inhabited”), binds to its enzymes and disrupts the DNA of the virus, which prevents its reproduction. At the same time, the drug has virtually no effect on the cells of the infection carrier. On sale there is a drug with additions in the names - “Akri”, “Stada”, “Akos”. It's the same thing, but different manufacturers and in different forms release. Thus, “Acyclovir 200 Stada” (we will look at the instructions and analogues of the drug today) is a German product, the price of which is significantly lower than the Russian and Ukrainian ones. Of course, this is a big plus.

"Acyclovir" (200 mg tablets, instructions below) prevents the development of visceral complications. The drug also has an immunomodulatory effect. It is strong immunity that suppresses intracellular viruses and prevents them from manifesting themselves.

"Acyclovir-Acos" (200 mg tablets), the instructions for which we are reviewing today, are only partially absorbed into gastrointestinal tract. Most of it is excreted unchanged in the urine. In case of renal failure, the half-life increases several times.

Instructions for use of "Acyclovir" (200 mg)

So let's figure it out. For what diseases is Acyclovir (200 mg) used? Instructions for use read:

For herpes of the skin and mucous membranes, both primary and in the acute phase.
For genital herpes.
For herpes zoster.
For chickenpox in the first day after the appearance of the rash.
With cytomegalovirus.
Patients with severe immunodeficiency caused by chemotherapy, HIV infection, or taking immune suppressants to prevent infections caused by herpes simplex.

The drug is used both for the prevention of herpes virus infections and for their advanced form. The only difference is in the dosage.

Composition of the drug

Note. "Acyclovir" 200, the composition of which is distinguished by a minimum of components, is made on the basis of a synthetic analogue of nucleic nucleoside and additional components - potato starch, microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, polyvinylpyrrolidone, colloidal silicon dioxide and magnesium stearate.

The drug contains lactose in its shell, therefore it is not recommended for people with hypersensitivity To her. However, in this case, cream and powder for preparing injections are available for sale.

Is Acyclovir harmful?

The answer is ambiguous. Like other antiviral drugs, Acyclovir 200 mg (tablets, the instructions for which we are discussing today) can cause side effects. When used, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive fatigue, headache, allergic reaction on the composition of the drug.

At intravenous administration blood counts increase - urea and creatinine, bilirubin. Liver enzymes increase. People who suffer from kidney disease should be especially careful when taking Acyclovir, as it negatively affects their function. Therefore, such patients need a dose adjustment of the drug.

Typically, "Acyclovir" (200 mg tablets), as indicated in the instructions, is well tolerated and non-toxic to the body. But you can’t take it constantly to suppress herpes viruses - it’s harmful to the liver. In addition, over time, viruses get used to the drug, and it stops helping.

In what forms is Acyclovir sold?

In pharmacies, Acyclovir can be found in 3 forms:

Ointment. Local application especially popular for treating the notorious “cold” on the lips.
Pills. For the treatment of more “deep” herpes.
Powder for the preparation of intravenous injections.

At the same time, the most popular is “Acyclovir” in tablets (200 mg). Instructions for use are discussed below. And in the form of an ointment.

"Acyclovir" tablets

The drug is available in packs of 20 tablets. The method of application depends on the diagnosis and age.

Prevention. 1 tablet 4 times a day.

Simple herpes virus. 1 tablet 5 times a day.

Shingles. 4 tablets 5 times a day.

For adults and children over two years of age, the dosage is similar.

For renal failure, Acyclovir is used 200 mg 2 times a day with an interval of 12 hours.

The duration of treatment is usually 5 days (for herpes zoster - 8). For the prevention of genital herpes, Acyclovir is used from six months to a year.

Attention! Take the tablets with plenty of water and do not drink them at night.

Cost of the drug

"Acyclovir" (200 mg tablets), the instructions and price of which can be found in almost every pharmacy, is a fairly affordable remedy. Its cost is Russian rubles ranges from 60 to 200 rubles. The price depends not only on the number of tablets in the package, but also on the manufacturer. Thus, "Acyclovir-Farmak", tablets 200 mg, 20 pieces, produced by Ukrainian pharmaceutical company, so its cost is very low - 20-30 UAH.

"Acyclovir" powder

Powder for preparation of injections in Lately prescribed quite rarely. Children over 12 years of age and adults: 5-10 mg per 1 kg of body weight at 8-hour intervals. The maximum dose taken per day is 30 mg/kg. With intravenous administration, additional adverse reactions that are not observed when taking pills - hallucinations, drowsiness, tremors, kidney complications, convulsions, psychosis.

"Acyclovir" for external use

The cream is prescribed for external use for such manifestations of herpes as “colds” on the lips, rash in the genital area with genital herpes, localized herpes zoster. This cream effectively eliminates the manifestations of the virus on the skin, penetrating through the epidermis into the affected cells. Almost does not enter the systemic circulation. Thus, the product prevents the formation of new rash elements and reduces the pain of herpes zoster. However, it is not recommended to apply the cream to the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, and vagina. Price - 20-40 UAH. (in Russia - 150 rubles).

Eye ointment "Acyclovir" is used for keratitis of herpes viral etiology and for the prevention of "colds" on the lips. The product is applied to the affected areas up to 6 times a day. The course of treatment is 5-10 days. It is important to start it as early as possible. In this case, Acyclovir is more effective.

special instructions

Acyclovir is not prescribed to pregnant women due to insufficient data on its safety for expectant mothers. However, during lactation it is contraindicated, as it is partially excreted in milk. At urgent need When prescribing the drug, feeding the baby with milk is discontinued.

People with renal failure"Acyclovir-Acri" tablets 200 mg (this was indicated in the instructions for use above) should be prescribed with caution. When taking the medicine simultaneously with nephrotoxic drugs, renal function may be impaired. In old age, especially with a concomitant diagnosis, it is recommended to drink large quantities of water.

Acyclovir is not recommended to be combined with alcohol (although there is no direct data on its interaction with alcohol), because, like any other antiviral drugs, in combination with them the drug can cause allergies, kidney damage, etc.

Can the drug be used by a child?

Since the effect of Acyclovir 200 mg tablets (instructions for children will be described below) on the body of infants has not been studied, it is not recommended to give it to children under one year of age. For chickenpox, it is prescribed both internally and externally. But children under one year of age very rarely suffer from this disease. An ointment to relieve the symptoms of herpes is indicated for children from 1 month.

Apply according to the following scheme:

1-2 years - 100 mg/day 4 times a day (5 days).
after 2 years - 200 mg 4 times a day.
2-5 years - 400 mg 4 times a day.
after 6 years - 800 mg 4 times a day.

In severe cases, the drug is used for up to 10 days. As alternative way Treatment to prevent relapse is indicated by taking 400 mg of the drug every 12 hours. "Acyclovir", the instructions for use of 200 mg tablets confirm this, are prescribed to children. But it is better to consult your doctor first.

Analogues of the drug

Preparations with acyclovir in the main composition that fight herpesvirus:

1. "Acyclovir Sandoz" (German cream for herpetic rashes).

2. (tablets).

3. "Zovirax" (powder for injection, tablets).

4. "Virolex" (available in the form of powder, tablets, eye ointment and cream).

5. "Medovir" (powder for preparing a solution).

6. "Vivorax" (cream and ointment).

7. "Gerpevir" in tablets.

Each of these drugs has one active substance, but at the same time different components of the additional composition. This is important for people with certain types of food intolerances to know.

What are the reviews about Acyclovir?

Considering the prevalence of the herpes virus, many people have had experience taking the drug. It was suitable for most, since the substance acyclovir is usually well tolerated and rarely causes side effects. Let's look at the reviews about it in more detail. Let's start with the benefits.

1. "Acyclovir" belongs to the first generation of antiviral drugs, and therefore has a low price compared to other drugs in this series. More advanced drugs differ high prices, but at the same time side effects they have less.

2. Efficiency is another undoubted advantage. "Acyclovir" helps very quickly, in a matter of days, eliminate the symptoms of herpes. Moreover, thanks to its immunomodulatory properties, herpes is still for a long time does not bother the patient.

3. "Acyclovir" is used not only for herpes. Practice shows that it is also effective against viruses that cause colds and flu, as well as rotavirus. After taking Acyclovir it drops quickly heat, and in general the patient is recovering. True, it is better to use it for the flu on the recommendation of a doctor.

Now let’s pay attention to the shortcomings that, despite the abundance of positive reviews, are still present.

Acyclovir does not help everyone. If it is ineffective, either another herpes treatment regimen or another antiviral drug. It's connected with individual characteristics body.
Side effects. The instructions say quite a lot side effects, which, fortunately, rarely occur, but the risk of their occurrence, especially with an overdose, is present. It is recommended to take this drug with particular caution in case of kidney disease, in particular in case of renal failure.
Sometimes Acyclovir alone is not enough to treat herpes. Herpes disappears, but then quickly appears again. This indicates the need to enhance immunity with immunomodulators. Or, again, about the need to select another antiviral drug.

Finally

In general, Acyclovir and its analogues are well tolerated and effective. The disadvantages are undoubtedly much smaller than the advantages, which explains the popularity of the drugs. At the same time, many complain that doctors have begun to prescribe it less and less. This may be due to the growing popularity of more expensive products.

Active substance

Aciclovir

Release form, composition and packaging

10 pieces. - contour cell packaging (2) - cardboard packs.

pharmachologic effect

The antiviral drug is a synthetic analogue of an acyclic purine nucleoside, which has a highly selective effect on herpes viruses. In virus-infected cells, under the influence of viral thymidine kinase, phosphorylation and further sequential transformation into mono-, di- and triphosphate occur. Acyclovir triphosphate is integrated into the viral DNA chain and blocks its synthesis through competitive inhibition of viral DNA polymerase.

In vitro, acyclovir is effective against the virus herpes simplex- Herpes simplex types 1 and 2; against the Varicella zoster virus, which causes chicken pox And ; higher concentrations are required for inhibition Epstein-Barr virus. Moderately active against cytomegalovirus.

In vivo, acyclovir is therapeutically and prophylactically effective, primarily in viral infections caused by the Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2. Prevents the formation of new rash elements, reduces the likelihood of skin dissemination and visceral complications, accelerates the formation of crusts, and reduces pain in the acute phase of herpes zoster.

Pharmacokinetics

After oral administration, bioavailability is 15-30%, which creates dose-dependent concentrations sufficient for effective treatment viral diseases. Food does not have a significant effect on the absorption of acyclovir. Acyclovir penetrates well into many organs, tissues and body fluids. Protein binding is 9-33% and is independent of its plasma concentration. Concentration in cerebrospinal fluid is about 50% of its concentration in plasma. Acyclovir penetrates the blood-brain and placental barriers and accumulates in breast milk. After oral administration of 1 g/day, the concentration of acyclovir in breast milk is 60-410% of its concentration in plasma (acyclovir enters the baby's body with mother's milk at a dose of 0.3 mg/kg/day).

C max of the drug in blood plasma after oral administration of 200 mg 5 times a day is 0.7 mcg/ml, C min is 0.4 mcg/ml; time to reach C max in plasma is 1.5-2 hours. Metabolized in the liver to form the pharmacologically inactive compound 9-carboxymethoxymethylguanine. Excreted by the kidneys glomerular filtration and tubular secretion: about 84% is excreted unchanged by the kidneys, 14% in the form of a metabolite. The renal clearance of acyclovir is 75-80% of the total plasma clearance.T 1/2 in adults with normal function kidneys is 2-3 hours. In patients with severe T1/2 - 20 hours, with hemodialysis - 5.7 hours, while the concentration of acyclovir in plasma decreases to 60% of the initial value. Less than 2% of acyclovir is excreted from the body through the intestines.

Indications

- treatment of infections of the skin and mucous membranes caused by Herpes simplex viruses types 1 and 2, both primary and secondary, including;

- prevention of exacerbations of recurrent infections caused by Herpes simplex types 1 and 2 in patients with normal immune status;

- prevention of primary and recurrent infections caused by Herpes simplex viruses types 1 and 2 in patients with immunodeficiency;

- included complex therapy patients with severe immunodeficiency: with HIV infection (stage AIDS, early clinical manifestations and detailed clinical picture) and in patients who underwent transplantation bone marrow;

- treatment of primary and recurrent infections caused by the Varicella zoster virus (chickenpox, as well as herpes zoster).

Contraindications

- lactation period;

- children under 3 years of age (for this dosage form).

WITH caution: pregnancy; elderly people and patients taking large doses of acyclovir, especially against the background of dehydration; renal dysfunction; neurological disorders or neurological reactions to cytotoxic drugs medicines(including in medical history).

Dosage

Acyclovir is taken during or immediately after a meal and washed down with plenty of water. The dosage regimen is set individually depending on the severity of the disease.

Treatment of skin and mucous membrane infections caused by Herpes simplex types 1 and 2

Adults

Acyclovir is prescribed 200 mg 5 times a day for 5 days at 4-hour intervals during the day and at 8-hour intervals at night. In more severe cases of the disease, the course of treatment can be extended as prescribed by a doctor to 10 days. As part of complex therapy for severe immunodeficiency, incl. when deployed clinical picture HIV infections, including early clinical manifestations of HIV infection and the stage of AIDS; after bone marrow transplantation or if absorption from the intestine is impaired, 400 mg is prescribed 5 times a day.

Treatment should begin as soon as possible after infection occurs; for relapses, acyclovir is prescribed in the prodromal period or when the first elements of the rash appear.

Prevention of recurrence of infections caused by Herpes simplex types 1 and 2 at patients with normal immune status

The recommended dose is 200 mg 4 times/day (every 6 hours) or 400 mg 2 times/day (every 12 hours). In some cases, lower doses are effective - 200 mg 3 times a day (every 8 hours) or 2 times a day (every 12 hours).

Prevention of infections caused by Herpes simplex types 1 and 2, y patients with immunodeficiency.

The recommended dose is 200 mg 4 times a day (every 6 hours). In case of severe immunodeficiency (for example, after bone marrow transplantation) or in case of impaired absorption from the intestine, the dose is increased to 400 mg 5 times a day. The duration of the preventive course of therapy is determined by the duration of the period of existence of the risk of infection.

Treatment infections caused by the Varicella zoster virus (chickenpox)

Adults

Prescribe 800 mg 5 times a day every 4 hours during the day and at 8-hour intervals at night. The duration of treatment is 7-10 days.

Children

Prescribe 20 mg/kg 4 times/day for 5 days (maximum single dose 800 mg), children from 3 to 6 years old: 400 mg 4 times/day, over 6 years old: 800 mg 4 times/day for 5 days.

Treatment should begin when the most early signs or symptoms of chickenpox.

Treatment of infections caused by the Herpes zoster virus (shingles)

Adults

Prescribe 800 mg 4 times a day every 6 hours for 5 days. Children over 3 years of age the drug is prescribed in the same dose as for adults.

Treatment and prevention of infections caused by Herpes simplex types 1 and 2, patients childhood with immunodeficiency and normal immune status.

Children from 3 years to 6 years- 400 mg times/day; over 6 years old- 800 mg 4 times/day. A more precise dose is determined at the rate of 20 mg/kg body weight, but not more than 800 mg times/day. The course of treatment is 5 days. Data on the prevention of recurrence of infections caused by the herpes simplex virus and the treatment of herpes zoster in children with normal indicators no immunity.

For treatment children over 3 years old prescribe 800 mg of acyclovir 4 times a day every 6 hours (as for treatment adults with immunodeficiency).

IN old age There is a decrease in the clearance of acyclovir in the body in parallel with a decrease in creatinine clearance. Those taking large doses of the drug orally should receive sufficient fluids. In case of renal failure, it is necessary to decide on reducing the dose of the drug.

Caution must be exercised when prescribing acyclovir patients with renal failure. In such patients, taking the drug orally in recommended doses for the treatment and prevention of infections caused by the herpes simplex virus does not lead to the accumulation of the drug to concentrations exceeding established safe levels. However,

At , as well as during treatment

—

Side effects

The drug is usually well tolerated.

The following classification is used adverse reactions depending on the frequency of occurrence: very often (>1/10), often (>1/10,<1/100), иногда (>1/1000, <1/100), редко (>1/10 000, <1/1000), очень редко (<1/10 000).

From the digestive system: often - nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; very rarely - hepatitis, jaundice, in isolated cases - abdominal pain.

From the hematopoietic system: rarely - transient slight increase in the activity of liver enzymes, a slight increase in the concentration of urea and creatinine, hyperbilirubinemia; very rarely - leukopenia, erythropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia.

From the side of the central nervous system: often - dizziness; very rarely - agitation, confusion, tremor, ataxia, dysarthria, hallucinations, psychotic symptoms, convulsions, drowsiness, encephalopathy, coma.

Typically, these side effects were observed in patients with renal failure or in the presence of other precipitating factors, and were mainly reversible.

From the respiratory system: rarely - shortness of breath.

Allergic reactions: anaphylactic reactions, skin rash, itching, urticaria, Lyell's syndrome, Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

From the skin and subcutaneous tissue: often - itching, urticaria, rash, including sensitization, rarely - alopecia, rapid diffuse hair loss (since this type of alopecia is observed in various diseases and during therapy with many drugs, its connection with taking acyclovir has not been established); very rarely Lyell's syndrome, Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

Others: often - fatigue, fever; rarely - peripheral edema, blurred vision, lymphadenopathy, myalgia, malaise.

Overdose

There have been no reported cases of overdose with oral administration of acyclovir. Ingestion of 20 g of acyclovir has been reported. Symptoms: agitation, coma, convulsions, lethargy. Precipitation of acyclovir in the renal tubules is possible if its concentration exceeds the solubility in the renal tubules (2.5 mg/ml).

Treatment: symptomatic.

Drug interactions

Concomitant use with probenecid leads to an increase in the average half-life and a decrease in the clearance of acyclovir.

An increase in the effect of acyclovir is observed with the simultaneous administration of immunostimulants.

When taken simultaneously with nephrotoxic drugs, the risk of developing renal dysfunction increases.

special instructions

Acyclovir is used strictly as prescribed by a doctor to avoid complications in adults and children over 3 years of age.

Long-term or repeated treatment with acyclovir in patients with reduced immunity can lead to the emergence of strains of viruses that are insensitive to its action. Most identified strains of viruses that are insensitive to acyclovir show a relative lack of viral thymidine kinase; strains with altered thymidine kinase or with altered DNA polymerase were isolated. In vitro, the effect of acyclovir on isolated strains of the Herpes simplex virus may cause the emergence of less sensitive strains.

The drug is prescribed with caution to patients with impaired renal function and elderly patients due to an increase in the half-life of acyclovir.

When using the drug, it is necessary to ensure the supply of a sufficient amount of fluid.

When taking the drug, kidney function should be monitored (blood urea and plasma creatinine concentrations). Acyclovir does not prevent the sexual transmission of herpes, so during the treatment period it is necessary to abstain from sexual intercourse, even in the absence of clinical manifestations. It is necessary to inform patients about the possibility of transmission of the genital herpes virus during the period of rash, as well as about cases of asymptomatic virus carriage.

Impact on the ability to drive vehicles and operate machinery

No data. However, it should be taken into account that dizziness may develop during treatment with acyclovir, so care must be taken when driving vehicles and engaging in potentially hazardous activities that require increased concentration and speed of psychomotor reactions.

Patients with renal failure. In such patients, taking the drug orally in recommended doses for the treatment and prevention of infections caused by the herpes simplex virus does not lead to the accumulation of the drug to concentrations exceeding established safe levels. However, patients with severe renal failure (creatinine clearance less than 10 ml/min) the dose of acyclovir should be reduced to 200 mg 2 times a day at 12-hour intervals.

At treatment of infections caused by the Varicella zoster virus, Herpes zoster, as well as during treatment patients with severe immunodeficiency recommended doses are:

— end-stage renal failure (creatinine clearance less than 10 ml/min)- 800 mg 2 times a day every 12 hours;

—severe renal failure (creatinine clearance 10-25 ml/min)- 800 mg 3 times a day every 8 hours.

Use in old age

Conditions for dispensing from pharmacies

The drug is available with a prescription.

Storage conditions and periods

Store the drug in a dry place, protected from light, at a temperature not exceeding 25°C. Keep out of the reach of children. Shelf life - 2 years. Do not use after expiration date.

Modern medicine knows eight varieties of the herpes virus. They affect various parts of the human body, leading to serious health consequences. It is impossible to completely cope with such a problem, so treatment is aimed at eliminating the symptoms and transferring the pathogen to a dormant state. The most effective medication is considered to be acyclovir for herpes. It quickly suppresses the activity of viruses. The main thing is not to forget about the features of the product and the rules for its use.

Features of the drug

The herpes virus lives in the body of 90% of all inhabitants of the planet. But it manifests itself only in 5%. The reason for this is a sharp decrease in immunity, hypothermia, prolonged exposure to a stressful situation, or the presence of serious illnesses. Taking antiviral drugs helps to cope with the problem.

The most effective remedy is Acyclovir. It belongs to the group of synthetic ones and is an analogue of a purified nucleoside. Does not have a toxic effect on mammalian cells.

Acyclovir prevents the appearance of rashes, reduces the likelihood of complications, and relieves pain during exacerbation of the disease. The active substance promotes the rapid formation of crusts at the site of rashes.

The bioavailability of the drug varies from 15 to 30%. It spreads quickly throughout the tissues of the body. Metabolized in liver cells. Three hours later it is excreted from the body in the urine.

The dosage and treatment regimen are selected by a specialist based on the patient’s health condition. The location of the virus and the age of the patient are taken into account. During a primary infection, the dosage of the active substance must be high, since the body does not have a sufficient amount of antibodies that fight the disease. It is also allowed to take acyclovir for the prevention of herpes.

The drug is available in two forms:

Ointment. Packaged in tubes of 2, 5, 10 and 20 grams. Contains a 5% concentration of the active substance. Additional components: chicken fat, polyethylene oxide, water and emulsifiers. Thanks to them, the drug is better absorbed by the skin.
Pills. The dosage of the active substance in them is 200, 400 or 800 mg. The following auxiliary components are used: lactose, starch, calcium stearate.

The choice of a specific type of drug is made taking into account the nature of the disease and the localization of the virus. On average, ointment costs from 14 to 50 rubles, and tablets from 170 to 190 rubles. There are many positive reviews on the Internet about this drug from people who drank it or used the ointment. This once again emphasizes its effectiveness.

The drug is in tablet form

Acyclovir tablets appear to be an effective treatment for simple and genital herpes. Shingles can also be treated with it. It is often recommended to take it for moderate severity of the disease. It copes poorly with severe forms due to low bioavailability. Only 30% of the total amount of active substance is attacked by the virus. The rest of it doesn't reach him.

The components of the product enter the bloodstream, where infected cells circulate. Viruses produce enzymes that help them maintain their vital functions. Acyclovir reacts with these enzymes and transforms them. The substance loses its ability to integrate into the DNA of the virus, which leads to its death.

The virus settles in the nerve ganglia. This area is not accessible to the immune system and to the drug. Therefore, Acyclovir effectively fights only viruses located on the surface. After completing the course of therapy, part of the infection continues to live in the human body, passing into a latent form.

A course of treatment with the drug allows you to achieve the following results:

Rapid healing of herpetic wounds.
No new foci of infection appear.
Unpleasant symptoms are eliminated: redness, itching, soreness.

After treatment, the disease goes into a latent form for a long time. A sharp decrease in immunity can provoke an exacerbation. Therefore, special attention during and after treatment is paid to increasing the body’s protective functions.

Acyclovir is a modern drug for the treatment of herpes, as well as some other viral diseases. Acyclovir has a direct antiviral effect, which means that it acts directly on the viruses themselves, preventing them from multiplying.

Operating principle

The mechanism of the antiviral effect of the drug is that the active substance contained in the drug penetrates cells infected with the virus. Once in cells, the virus begins to multiply in them, using nucleotides present in the cell to synthesize the viral genome.

The structure of acyclovir is similar to the structure of guanine present in cells. Viral enzymes modify acyclovir to acyclovir triphosphate, which is structurally similar to deoxyguanosine triphosphate, which is normally part of the viral DNA sequence. The “unsuspecting” viral enzyme essentially inserts a “Trojan horse” into its DNA chain. And in vain, since acyclovir triphosphate makes it impossible for the virus to replicate. This stops its reproduction and makes it much easier for the body’s immune forces to fight viral particles.

It should be noted that the active substance of the drug has no effect on the genetic apparatus of the cell itself and does not contribute to the occurrence of mutations. This can be confirmed based on the results of both numerous tests on animals and the practice of using the drug in humans. Therefore, in this regard, the drug is completely safe.

The described method of fighting viruses was at one time a novelty in the world of medicine, and the developers of the drug were awarded the Nobel Prize. And to this day, Acyclovir remains the most effective remedy for herpes viruses, despite the emergence of new antiviral drugs.

What viruses does the drug protect against? Unfortunately, the scope of action of the medicine is limited only to a certain class of viruses, namely the herpesvirus family. These include herpes simplex viruses types 1 and 2, Varicella Zoster virus, cytomegalovirus, which causes cytomegalovirus infection, and Epstein-Barr virus, which causes some tumors and blood diseases. Therefore, you should not listen to the opinion of those who suggest treatment with Acyclovir for any viral infections, such as influenza and even AIDS.

The strength of the drug’s effect on different viruses of the family is not the same. The drug is most dangerous for herpes simplex viruses, it has a slightly weaker effect on the chickenpox virus and even worse on cytomegalovirus and Epstein-Barr virus.

Indications for use

First of all, the drug treats diseases caused by the herpes simplex virus. This is a herpes that occurs on the face, primarily around the lips, and on the mucous membranes, including the mucous membranes of the eyes, as well as in the area of the anus and genitals.

Diseases caused by the Varicella zoster virus include chickenpox and shingles. Diseases caused by cytomegalovirus and Epstein-Barr virus can also be treated with the drug. However, their therapy requires larger doses than the treatment of herpes simplex.

Herpes is one of the most common infectious diseases. Its main symptoms are rashes on the lips, face and eyes. Sometimes rashes appear in the genital area. As a rule, the rashes are very itchy and painful.

Statistics show that more than 90% of the world's population is infected with the herpes simplex virus. However, not everyone has symptoms of herpes. What is this connected with? The fact is that immunity in healthy people usually inhibits the spread of the virus. However, in some cases, the immune system may be weakened, and then we encounter manifestations of herpes.

What can reduce antiherpes immunity:

infectious diseases (acute respiratory infections, influenza)
hypothermia
stress
elderly age
changes in hormonal levels (for example, during pregnancy)

If these reasons lead to the activation of the virus, then antiviral therapy with the drug is prescribed.

There are often cases when the drug is used for other purposes, for example, for the treatment of boils, acne, other rashes and dermatitis not associated with herpes viruses. Needless to say, this will not benefit the body at all. Therefore, before starting treatment, you should clarify the diagnosis - herpes or herpes zoster - from a specialist. It should also be remembered that the use of antibiotics for herpes is also meaningless.

Description of the drug

The drug is available in various dosage forms:

Acyclovir tablets, 200 or 400 mg
eye ointment
creams
solutions for parenteral administration

The question may arise, which dosage form is optimal to use? This should be decided by the attending physician. However, it should be noted that when it comes to skin rashes, it is best to use a cream or ointment, from which the active substance enters directly into the places where the virus multiplies. If you use Acyclovir in tablets, then due to the low bioavailability of the drug, only a small amount enters the bloodstream. This means that the effectiveness of the product will be lower.

Acyclovir is an inexpensive, but quite serious drug. Therefore, Acyclovir tablets are sold in pharmacies only with a prescription. The only exceptions are creams and ointments.

The drug has several analogues. The most famous of them is Zovirax. In fact, this is a drug that has the same composition. However, it is of imported origin, and therefore its price is slightly higher.

Side effects

The drug has few side effects. Allergic reactions to the components of the drug, headache, dizziness, gastrointestinal disturbances - nausea, diarrhea, vomiting - may occur.

Under no circumstances should you combine taking the drug with drinking alcohol. The fact is that the drug is metabolized in the liver using the same enzymes as alcohol. Therefore, if you take Acyclovir and alcohol at the same time, this will lead to both substances accumulating in the blood and, as a result, to poisoning.

Contraindications

Acyclovir has several contraindications. First of all, the drug penetrates the placental and blood-brain barriers and enters breast milk. Therefore, it is not recommended for use during pregnancy. When prescribing the drug to pregnant and nursing mothers, the doctor must weigh the pros and cons. It is also not recommended to give tablets to children under 3 years of age.

Instructions for use and dosage

When taking Acyclovir tablets, you should use the instructions for use that come with the drug or the instructions of your doctor.

Typically, Acyclovir 200 mg in tablet form must be taken for herpes simplex 5 times a day. Between doses there should be a break of 4 hours (at night - 8 hours). For chickenpox and herpes zoster, the dose is increased 4 times - up to 800 mg.

Children are prescribed the drug based on their weight - 20 mg/kg. In this case, the drug is taken 4 times a day for 5 days.

The usual course of treatment is 5 days; for genital herpes, the period increases to 10 days. Prevention of herpes is carried out by taking 400 mg of the drug every 12 hours.

The maximum permissible daily dose is 2 g. The absorption of the substance into the blood does not depend on food. Therefore, Acyclovir tablets can be taken both before and after meals.

The body’s ability to remove the active substance from the blood is limited, so the dosage must be strictly observed to avoid poisoning.

When using a cream or ointment, the medicine is spread in a thin layer on the affected area. It should be remembered that a thick layer of ointment will not increase the therapeutic effect, but will only waste the drug.

How quickly does Acyclovir work and when should I expect improvements?

Effect of the drug

Acyclovir is available in the form of tablets and ointments for external use. When taken orally, about 20% of the active substance is absorbed. The remaining components are excreted naturally. The active substance is distributed throughout the tissues, part of it is broken down in the liver.

Acyclovir has the ability to penetrate into the spinal cord, brain and breast milk. The product, under the influence of special enzymes, has a negative effect on viruses. Part of Acyclovir penetrates the DNA of pathogenic cells, stopping the reproduction of the virus.

The tablets have minimal side effects. This is due to the fact that the active substance does not enter healthy cells, but only affects the affected ones. The drug also has a minimal number of contraindications.

Indications for use of the product are chickenpox, herpes zoster and other diseases caused by herpes virus types 1 and 2. In case of severe lesions of the skin, the use of tablets and ointments for external use may be prescribed.

How quickly does the drug take effect?

Due to the high concentration (200 mg) of the active substance included in the composition, the effect of the drug occurs quite quickly, depending on the form used.

External use of the product allows you to quickly achieve the desired result. This is due to the fact that all components penetrate directly into the affected cells. Relief comes within minutes. But for a complete cure, a full course of treatment is required.

Pills

In the form of tablets, Acyclovir acts after 1-2 days, which is due to the fact that the active substance acts on the cause itself, suppressing the activity of the virus. The course of therapy when using tablets is up to 10 days.

How long does Acyclovir last?

How long Acyclovir lasts depends on the form in which the drug was used and the duration of the course of treatment. On average, the active substance is completely eliminated from the body after three hours. Thus, the effect of Acyclovir ends 3 hours after use.

The active substance does not accumulate, which allows you to use the ointment every 4 hours. Tablets must be taken with caution, following the indicated dosages.

Features of application

To avoid side effects, experts recommend following a number of rules for taking the drug:

Apply the ointment in a thin layer to eliminate negative effects on the body;
Avoid contact of the product with the mucous membranes of the eyes and mouth;
Use the drug at regular intervals, but not more often than every 4 hours;
Acyclovir in tablet form should be used immediately after the first symptoms appear;
The ointment is applied only to the affected areas of the skin.

Acyclovir helps cope with diseases such as shingles, chickenpox, and herpes simplex. But to avoid the development of complications, it is necessary to avoid injury to herpetic vesicles. Acyclovir is one of the best remedies in the fight against the herpes virus.

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Acyclovir - history of invention

Acyclovir is one of the most famous drugs used to treat viral diseases such as herpes simplex, shingles, chicken pox and many others. For decades, this drug has not only been widely used in therapy, but also serves as the basis for the creation of new, more effective drugs. The invention and introduction of acyclovir into medical practice is without any doubt one of the most important achievements of chemotherapy.

View medications for the treatment of herpes

Creation of Acyclovir

Acyclovir was first synthesized in 1974 by Howard Schaeffer, an employee of Wellcome Research Laboratories (now GlaxoSmithKline and one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world). However, the fame of the inventor of the world's first antiviral drug did not go to Howard Schaeffer, but to another laboratory employee, Gertrude Bell Elyon. Together with James Blake and other colleagues from the laboratory, Gertrude Elion studied the properties of acyclovir and the principles of its action. In 1988, Gertrude Elion received the Nobel Prize for her discovery of important principles of drug therapy; The work on this drug played a big role in receiving the award.

How does Acyclovir work?

Acyclovir is an artificial analogue of the nucleoside deoxyguanosine, which is an important component of DNA. Acyclovir has an inhibitory effect against herpes viruses type 1, 2, as well as against herpes zoster. The drug allows you to stop the reproduction of the virus in the cells of the infected body; however, it is not able to completely remove the virus.

One of the most surprising and mysterious features of acyclovir is the selectivity of its action. During her research, Gertrude Elion discovered that the substance remains completely inert until it encounters the herpes virus. Acyclovir does not affect healthy cells of the body; it has minimal toxicity and is well tolerated by most patients. Its advantages also include safety for pregnant women and the almost complete absence of the risk of unwanted interactions with other drugs.

Commercial use of the drug

Researchers kept the drug secret between 1974 and 1977; the first information about its properties appeared only four years after its synthesis. In 1982, acyclovir received FDA approval and was marketed under the commercial name Zovirax. Acyclovir was first released in the form of an ointment, although today tablets based on it are no less common.

Very soon, researchers began using acyclovir as the basis for creating new antiviral drugs. This is how three main analogues of the drug appeared:

It has higher bioavailability when taken orally compared to acyclovir. The drug can be used less frequently than acyclovir, which makes it more convenient to use.

Provides treatment for herpes virus types that are resistant to the action of acyclovir. It has comparable effectiveness to acyclovir at lower dosages. Widely used in the treatment of post-herpetic complications of a neuralgic nature.

Used in the treatment of cytomegalovirus infection and other herpesvirus infections. Used both by injection and orally.

Intended for oral use; in the body it quickly turns into ganciclovir. It has a high level of bioavailability when taken orally.

Acyclovir

Prices in online pharmacies:

Acyclovir is a synthetic antiviral drug used to treat herpes and some other infections.

Pharmacological action of Acyclovir

The active component of Acyclovir has antiviral and immunostimulating effects, effectively affecting Epstein-Barr viruses, Varicella zoster, Herpes simplex types 1, 2 and cytomegalovirus.

The mechanism of action of the drug is based on the formation of “defective” viral DNA, which blocks the reproduction of the virus.

For the herpes virus, Acyclovir, according to the instructions, stops the formation of rash elements while accelerating the formation of crusts. In addition, the intensity of pain during the acute phase of herpes zoster, the likelihood of visceral complications and skin dissemination are reduced.

Release form

The drug Acyclovir is released in the form:

Tablets of 200 and 400 mg;
5% ointment for external and local use;
3% eye ointment.

Acyclovir analogs

Analogs of Acyclovir for the active component are:

External agents (cream or ointment): Acyclostad, Gervirax, Zovirax, Virolex, Vivorax, Herpetad, Gerperax;
Tablets or powder for the preparation of solution for infusion: Vivorax, Medovir, Virolex, Provirsan.

Also, if necessary, after medical consultation, it is possible to replace Acyclovir with analogues according to the mode of action: Alpizarin, Ribapeg, Giporamin, Condilin, Epigen, Gossypol, Minaker, Vartek, Erazaban, Aldara, Arviron, Vacirex, Cymevene, Rebetol, Famciclovir-Teva, Ribavirin and some other.

Indications for use of Acyclovir

Acyclovir tablets are prescribed:

In the treatment of primary and secondary infections of the skin and mucous membranes that are caused by Herpes simplex viruses types 1 and 2, including genital herpes;
As part of complex treatment therapy for severe immunodeficiency;
For the prevention of exacerbations of recurrent infections caused by Herpes simplex types 1 and 2 against the background of normal immune status and in immunodeficiency;
In the treatment of primary and recurrent infections caused by the Varicella zoster and Herpes zoster viruses (chickenpox and herpes zoster).

Acyclovir eye ointment, according to the instructions, is used in the treatment of herpetic keratitis, which is caused by the Herpes simplex virus types 1 or 2.

External ointment Acyclovir is prescribed for the treatment of:

Herpes simplex of the skin and mucous membranes;
Primary and recurrent genital herpes;
Localized herpes zoster as an adjuvant treatment.

Contraindications for use

The use of Acyclovir in any dosage forms is contraindicated during lactation, and during pregnancy it is prescribed with caution, weighing the degree of risk for the mother and child with the possible benefits of using the medication.

In addition, Acyclovir, according to the instructions, should not be used if there is hypersensitivity to the active or excipients included in the tablets or ointments.

Acyclovir tablets are not used in pediatrics before three years of age. Also, the drug in this dosage form should be taken with caution:

Against the background of renal dysfunction;
In old age;
For neurological disorders or neurological reactions to cytotoxic drugs.

Directions for use and dosage

Acyclovir tablets should be taken with food. The dosage regimen of the medicine is determined by the doctor individually.

When treating infections of the mucous membranes and skin caused by Herpes simplex types 1 and 2, adults are prescribed a course of treatment for 5 days. A single dosage is 1 tablet of Acyclovir (200 mg), the frequency of administration is 5 times a day, maintaining a four-hour interval between doses.

In some cases, longer treatment (up to ten days) and doubling of the single dosage may be required.

Acyclovir, according to the instructions, is most effective in cases where treatment begins immediately after the infection is detected.

To prevent possible relapses of infections, take one Acyclovir tablet (200 mg) every 6 hours.

When treating chickenpox (infections caused by the Varicella zoster virus), take 2 tablets of Acyclovir (400 mg) 5 times a day for 7-10 days. For children, dosage is usually calculated based on body weight.

For the treatment of herpes zoster (infections caused by the Herpes zoster virus), take the same dosage as for the treatment of chickenpox. The duration of treatment is 5 days. Children over 3 years of age are usually prescribed an adult dosage.

Elderly people need to maintain a fluid regime when taking Acyclovir, and against the background of renal failure, the recommended dose of the drug for adults should be reduced.

Acyclovir eye ointment is prescribed to adults and children in the same way - a strip of ointment 1 cm long must be placed in the lower conjunctival sac every 4 hours. Treatment is carried out until complete healing, and is also continued for another three days after it.

External Acyclovir ointment should be applied to the affected areas of the skin 5-6 times a day. The effect of treatment depends on how quickly it is started after the infection is identified. The average duration of treatment is 5-10 days.

Side effects of Acyclovir

The drug Acyclovir is generally well tolerated. During a course of treatment with Acyclovir tablets, the following most often develop:

In addition, the use of Acyclovir can lead to disruption of certain body systems, namely:

Digestive system – jaundice, hepatitis, abdominal pain;
Hematopoietic system – anemia, hyperbilirubinemia, thrombocytopenia, erythropenia, leukopenia;
Central nervous system - drowsiness, tremor, agitation, ataxia, confusion, encephalopathy, hallucinations, dysarthria, convulsions, psychotic symptoms, coma;
Respiratory system - shortness of breath.

Of allergic reactions, the most likely development is skin rash, urticaria, itching, Lyell's and Stevens-Johnson syndrome, as well as anaphylactic reactions.

Other side effects of Acyclovir tablets include blurred vision, peripheral edema, myalgia, lymphadenopathy, and malaise.

The use of Acyclovir eye ointment causes practically no undesirable effects. In rare cases, minor allergic reactions are possible in the form of immediate hypersensitivity, conjunctivitis, pinpoint superficial keratopathy, mild burning, blepharitis, which does not require discontinuation of the medication.

External Acyclovir ointment may cause pain, itching, vulvitis, burning, skin rash, allergic reactions and swelling at the site of application.

Storage conditions and periods

The medication Acyclovir, according to the instructions, is a prescription antiviral drug with a shelf life of:

Acyclovir tablets – 2 years;
Acyclovir ophthalmic and external ointment – 3 years. The medicine must be used within a month after opening.

Acyclovir - how safe is it? - How does acyclovir work?

How does acyclovir work?

Acyclovir is an antiviral drug that has a virostatic effect (suspends the activity of viruses). Acyclovir is available in different dosage forms: in tablets for oral administration, in a suspension for the preparation of a solution for injection and for external use in the form of ointment, ophthalmic ointment and cream.

Acyclovir is an analogue of one of the natural components of DNA, so it can actively integrate into the metabolic processes of cells. Enzymes of virus-infected cells convert acyclovir into its active form - acyclovir triphosphate, which penetrates the cell infected with the herpes virus and replaces one of the natural components necessary for the synthesis of viral DNA. By integrating into the DNA synthesized by the virus, acyclovir triphosphate inhibits the reproduction of the virus.

The high selectivity of action and low toxicity of this drug for humans are due to the fact that in healthy, virus-free human tissue cells there are no enzymes capable of converting acyclovir into the active form of acyclovir triphosphate. Therefore, the drug does not affect the normal life processes occurring in the cell. The specificity and high selectivity of action is also due to the preferential accumulation of acyclovir in cells affected by the herpes virus.

Acyclovir is active against herpes simplex types 1 and 2, the virus that causes chickenpox and herpes zoster. Lichen is not only an infectious disease, the Epstein-Barr virus (which causes acute mononucleosis and some cancers). Moderately active against cytomegaloviruses (viruses from the herpes family that can infect many organs and tissues; the disease is often asymptomatic). For herpes, acyclovir prevents the formation of new rash elements, reduces the likelihood of the spread of infection and complications from internal organs, accelerates the formation of crusts, and reduces pain in the acute phase of herpes zoster. Has an immunostimulating effect.

After oral administration, acyclovir is absorbed in the small intestine and enters the blood. About 15-30% of the drug enters tissues affected by the virus (low bioavailability). In this case, increasing the dose only reduces the bioavailability of acyclovir. The presence of food in the digestive system does not affect the absorption of acyclovir. Acyclovir breaks down in the liver, forming inactive metabolic products that are excreted in urine and feces. Approximately 14% of the oral dose is excreted unchanged in the urine.

The amount of acyclovir that, after topical application, enters the surface layer of the skin (the site where viruses enter skin cells) is 30-50% of the concentration achievable by taking the drug orally.

Indications and contraindications for use

Acyclovir tablets for oral administration are prescribed:

in the treatment of infections of the skin and mucous membranes caused by herpes simplex viruses type 1 and 2, including primary and recurrent herpes of the external genitalia and lips in patients with both immunocompromised and normal immune systems;
for the prevention of relapses of herpes in cases of recurrent genital herpes in patients with a normal immune system and with decreased immunity;
in the treatment of infections caused by herpes viruses that cause herpes zoster. Shingles - from simple malaise and brain damage and chickenpox.

Intravenous acyclovir Acyclovir - how safe is it? prescribed for herpetic encephalitis (inflammation of brain tissue), herpetic infection in newborns, eczema and pneumonia.

Externally, acyclovir is prescribed for the local treatment of skin infections caused by herpes simplex viruses. Herpes simplex - in reality, everything is not so simple, including primary and recurrent herpes of the external genitalia and lips. Acyclovir is prescribed as an eye ointment for herpetic eye infections.

Acyclovir is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to the drug, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Signs of overdose and side effects

In case of an overdose, the following may appear: headache, neurological disorders, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, impaired renal function, lethargy (prolonged sleep), convulsions, coma (unconsciousness caused by severe depression of the central nervous system). In such cases, you should immediately call an ambulance, as treatment should only be carried out in a hospital.

Side effects that may occur when taking acyclovir: allergic reactions in the form of skin rash, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, impaired liver and kidney function, headache, dizziness, increased fatigue, decreased concentration, hallucinations, drowsiness or insomnia, a slight decrease in the number of red and white blood cells, fever, baldness.

With prolonged use of the ointment, peeling is possible at the site of its application, rarely - local irritation of the mucous membrane, burning sensation, pain.

When administered intravenously, inflammation of the vein wall may occur at the injection site. In addition, sand may appear in the urine, confusion, lethargy, hallucinations, increased excitability, drowsiness, trembling of the limbs and the whole body, convulsions, psychosis, coma.

Treatment with acyclovir should be carried out under the supervision of a physician and begin as early as possible, when the very first signs of the disease appear.

Acyclovir tablets: patient reviews

According to reviews, Acyclovir tablets are a popular antiviral drug developed for the treatment of herpes. It is also known by the trade name Zovirax. For the invention of the drug Acyclovir, an American pharmacologist named Gertrude Elion was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1988. However, according to other information, this invention is attributed to the merits of Howard Schaeffer, who first synthesized it back in 1974.

In this article we will look at the instructions for use and reviews for Acyclovir Akrikhin tablets.

How does the drug “Acyclovir” affect the human body?

Acyclovir is an analogue of purine nucleoside. It is thanks to this similarity that the product can interact with the enzymes of the virus and prevent its subsequent reproduction. At the same time, the medicine does not affect intracellular processes in the human body, that is, it acts selectively.

According to the instructions and reviews, Acyclovir tablets are characterized by low bioavailability, which is only seven to ten percent. This means that a very small dose of the drug can reach infected tissue. In order to increase bioavailability, scientists and specialists have been trying for many years to develop new analogues of Acyclovir, for example, Ganciclovir and Famciclovir, whose effectiveness rates exceed more than fifty percent.

Reviews of Acyclovir tablets indicate that after ingestion and subsequent absorption, they are able to enter the surrounding tissues, as well as organs and saliva. In addition, these components penetrate into various human biological fluids. It should be said that local use of this medicine leads to only slight absorption of the product.

In what cases is the drug "Acyclovir" taken?

According to reviews, it is advisable to take Acyclovir tablets against the background of the following infectious conditions:

herpes of the skin and mucous membranes;
genital herpes;
herpetic encephalitis;
infectious conditions caused by the herpes zoster virus;
chicken pox;
herpes zoster.

This is confirmed by the instructions for use and reviews for Acyclovir tablets.

How to take it for children?

Judging by the reviews, Acyclovir tablets are also suitable for children.

Not only adults encounter the herpes virus, but also children, who are no less susceptible to this unpleasant disease. Among many reviews, parents leave positive comments in which they tell how Acyclovir helped their child. For herpes sore throat in children, the doctor prescribes for young patients, as a rule, a quarter of a tablet three times a day. For example, parents say that with herpes, the temperature in children usually remains high for several days. If you start taking Acyclovir tablets (the instructions and reviews confirm this), then it quickly drops. The children are recovering quickly.

When is the drug contraindicated?

According to the instructions and reviews, Acyclovir tablets are prescribed to children from 2 years of age. If you are hypersensitive to any components of the drug, you should not drink it. Also, pregnant women should not do this. At the same time, Acyclovir should be prescribed with caution to patients with renal failure. It is necessary to maintain an adequate level of body hydration.

Adverse reactions

Reviews note the presence of a large number of side variations that appear while taking the drug. We list the main ones:

headache, increased fatigue, drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, convulsions;
abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite;
decreased hematological parameters (anemia, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia);
tachycardia, chest pain;
decreased diuresis, slight increase in the concentration of urea and creatinine in the blood;
skin rashes, urticaria and other allergic reactions.

In rare cases, patients may suffer from fever, difficulty breathing and swallowing. If side effects are detected, the medication should be stopped immediately.

Overdose

The first sign of a drug overdose is the appearance of attacks of nausea and vomiting. You should immediately stop taking the drug and seek treatment from a doctor.

An overdose of the drug usually causes the following symptoms:

acute renal failure;
headache, confusion, psychomotor agitation;
hallucinations, epileptic seizures, coma.

It is necessary to remove the drug from the body - rinse the stomach, prescribe absorbents, and in severe situations - hemodialysis. But more often, specialists make do with symptomatic therapy.

Drug interactions

When taking products containing probenecid and cimetidine, a decrease in the elimination time of Acyclovir from the body was observed. When taken concomitantly with cyclosporine, nephrotoxicity may develop.

Patient reviews

The appearance of colds on the lip is one of the common situations in the daily life of every person. Most people, in order to get rid of this unpleasant and annoying disease, resort to treatment with the help of the medicine “Acyclovir”. People write that when taking it, they usually do not observe significant side effects. However, they are unhappy that they have to take a lot of pills for the treatment to be effective.

About the price

Acyclovir Akrikhin tablets, according to reviews, are inexpensive, so treatment with this drug does not cost much, which, of course, pleases buyers. Patients note that they did not observe any special miraculous effects during the treatment period. People write that during therapy, the rashes simply begin to heal on their own, as the formation of new herpes blisters stops. At the same time, patients do not like the fact that a cold that appears does not disappear instantly. Even with the use of Acyclovir, you have to wait for some time until the infection dries up on its own and finally disappears from the affected area. Patients also note that after a course of treatment there is no relapse for several months.

Negative comments

Dissatisfied people admit that Acyclovir tablets have stopped helping them a long time ago. Therefore, such patients use other modern antiviral drugs instead.

Some people report that after a course of Acyclovir therapy, their herpes flares up quite quickly, even if they have been taking this drug for a long time. Buyers find this drug inconvenient to use. They don’t like that one pack lasts only a few days, and the effect, in their opinion, is very insignificant.

People express the opinion that sometimes Russian pharmacies sell goods of poor quality. Also, patients have long been accustomed to believing that cheap simply cannot be good. Patients leave a lot of reviews about Acyclovir tablets for herpes.

Admission against the background of relapse

However, based on numerous reviews, we can say that many patients take the drug against the background of a relapse of herpes on the lips. Even though its effectiveness shows average results, people are satisfied with the effect that the product has on the body. It is noted that when treated with this pharmaceutical drug, herpes blisters do not disappear instantly, but they become less painful, and, in addition, heal faster.

People note that it is necessary to take Acyclovir tablets for at least five days, otherwise herpes may appear again, and short-term treatment will be ineffective.

Unfortunately, very often in reviews there are complaints that this medicinal product has absolutely not helped people in the fight against herpes. Patients write in their comments that they attribute this unpleasant circumstance to low-quality medications.

Efficiency depends on the characteristics of the body

It should be borne in mind that the effectiveness of a particular drug directly depends on the characteristics of the patient’s body. Therefore, it is not surprising that Acyclovir helps some patients, but not others. For example, there are many reviews in which people report that the described pharmaceutical product perfectly helped them cope with herpes on the lips.

Many patients are aware of the harmful effects the drug has on the kidneys and other body systems. However, they believe that, according to reviews, Acyclovir tablets are quite suitable as a cheap method of therapy for herpes in adults.

Contains complications

In addition, people note that they have already been convinced of the drug’s ability to prevent small herpes from developing into a huge sore. But from their own experience, they report that it is advisable to use the product in the initial stages, as soon as the disease makes itself felt in the form of symptoms such as itching or burning. Many admit that they don’t want to hear about other remedies against herpes, so they always carry these tablets with them and, in case of an unpleasant skin lesion on the lips, they resort to using Acyclovir.

Herpes in general is one of the most serious problems for many patients, as it can appear on the lips even after a mild cold has occurred. Therefore, it is not surprising that a significant part of the reviews contains information in which it is reported that people consider Acyclovir to be almost the only salvation from herpes, which can always be bought in absolutely every pharmacy for a small amount.

Tablets are better than ointment

Some patients emphasize that they have already seen from their own experience that Acyclovir tablets, according to reviews, work much better than an ointment with a similar composition. Immediately after using them, the cold on the lips begins to dry out, and after two or three days it ceases to be visible at all.

conclusions

Thus, Acyclovir tablets are an inexpensive and moderately effective remedy for various manifestations of herpes. Based on numerous positive and negative reviews from patients, we can say with confidence that, in general, this remedy effectively copes with emerging infectious diseases that often appear in people’s everyday lives.

The drug Acyclovir for the herpes virus

Features of the drug

The most effective remedy is Acyclovir. It belongs to the group of synthetic ones and is an analogue of a purified nucleoside. Does not have a toxic effect on mammalian cells.

The bioavailability of the drug varies from 15 to 30%. It spreads quickly throughout the tissues of the body. Metabolized in liver cells. Three hours later it is excreted from the body in the urine.

The drug is available in two forms:

Ointment. Packaged in tubes of 2, 5, 10 and 20 grams. Contains a 5% concentration of the active substance. Additional components: chicken fat, polyethylene oxide, water and emulsifiers. Thanks to them, the drug is better absorbed by the skin.
Pills. The dosage of the active substance in them is 200, 400 or 800 mg. The following auxiliary components are used: lactose, starch, calcium stearate.

The drug is in tablet form

A course of treatment with the drug allows you to achieve the following results:

Rapid healing of herpetic wounds.
No new foci of infection appear.
Unpleasant symptoms are eliminated: redness, itching, soreness.

For people with immunodeficiency, the use of the drug is not effective, since their body does not produce enough enzymes that support the functioning of the virus. Therefore, treatment with Acyclovir in patients with HIV or who have undergone chemotherapy is not advisable.

The sooner the use of the drug is started, the higher its effectiveness will be. Take the tablets only with clean water. Drink as much fluid as possible throughout the course of therapy. This helps eliminate toxic substances from the body. The dosage of the medication is selected individually for each patient by the attending physician. Instructions for use suggest the following treatment regimens:

Adults drink 200 mg of the drug 5 times a day to treat primary infections. The course of treatment is five days. It can be extended as prescribed by the doctor. For immunodeficiency, the dosage is increased to 400 mg at a time. To treat the Varicella zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, you should drink 800 mg of the drug every four hours a day. At night they take an eight-hour break.
If acyclovir is used to prevent herpes, then it is taken 200 mg four times a day. If necessary, the regimen is changed and 400 mg is taken twice a day.
For children, the scheme for taking acyclovir is slightly different. Four doses of 200 mg at a time are enough per day. The duration of therapy is five days. For children under six years of age, the dosage is halved and half a tablet is taken four times a day. For children under three years of age, treatment with acyclovir is contraindicated. Taking a tablet of this medication provokes the development of complications.

It is better to take tablets after meals. This will reduce their negative impact on the stomach. If you miss a dose of acyclovir, do not take two tablets at the same time. First use one, and after a while the other.

Contraindications

Your doctor will tell you how to take acyclovir for the herpes virus in a particular case. Before starting therapy, carefully read the contraindications. This drug should not be taken by patients suffering from the following problems:

Adrenal dysfunction.
Disturbances in the functioning of the central nervous system.
The period of feeding the baby with breast milk.
Pregnancy.
Senile age.

If there are such contraindications, taking herpes pills is prohibited. The doctor selects another treatment method that will be safe for the patient.

Possible side effects

During treatment with acyclovir tablets, side effects may occur. Among them are:

Nausea and bouts of vomiting.
Pain in the lumbar region.
Malfunctions of the digestive system.
The person becomes lethargic and constantly wants to sleep.
Pain occurs during urination.
The limbs swell.
Signs of jaundice.
Anemia.
Migraine attacks.
Cramps.
Allergic reactions.
Hair loss.

In rare cases, long-term treatment with acyclovir causes coma. If after therapy you begin to feel unwell or other unpleasant symptoms, consult a doctor.

Application of ointment

Modern pharmacies offer not only ointments and tablets, but also Acyclovir cream. Many people believe that cream and ointment are the same thing. Actually the difference is in the composition. The ointment is based on fatty substances: lanolin, petroleum jelly or others. The cream is less greasy, due to which the active substance is absorbed faster and begins to act.

The choice of product is determined by the location of its application. If you buy acyclovir for herpes on the lips, it is better to give preference to ointment. It will fight viruses and have a moisturizing effect. This will prevent the formation of non-healing wounds and will allow you to quickly cope with the manifestations of the disease. It is better to use cream against genital herpes. It is quickly absorbed into the skin and does not stain underwear.

The methods for using ointment and cream are the same. In such forms, acyclovir is effectively used to prevent herpes. Periodically, problem areas of the body are lubricated with it.

Application rules and dosage

Acyclovir for genital herpes, as well as for other types of this disease, is applied directly to the affected areas. It is allowed to be used not only by adults, but also by children. When applying the product, follow the following rules:

Before starting the treatment procedure, wipe the area where the drug is applied with a cotton pad soaked in warm water. This will cleanse and prepare the skin.
The ointment is applied in a thin layer to all affected areas. Do this every four hours. Avoid getting the product on sores located in the mouth. Relief will come on the second day.
Since the drug is applied pointwise, it is better to use a cotton swab for this. This way, herperviruses will not spread to healthy tissue. For the same purpose, it is recommended to wear gloves during the procedure.
Treatment for herpes takes seven days. If the wounds do not heal, the course is extended to 10 days.
Be careful not to get the product into your eyes. It is prohibited to mix it with any cosmetic products.

If herpes appears near the eyes, do not try to treat it yourself; consult a doctor immediately. Otherwise, the virus will spread to the mucous surface of the eye. This provokes partial or complete loss of vision.

Side effects

It is believed that acyclovir ointment does not cause side effects. In rare cases, an allergic reaction to the components of the product is possible. It is manifested by itching, flaking of the skin and redness.

For genital herpes, trying to quickly cope with the problem, some combine all available types of the drug. This leads to a negative reaction from the body. The consequence of improper treatment of the genitals is the development of vulvitis.

Analogs

Acyclovir is not the only drug that successfully treats herpes. Among its closest analogues are:

Zovirax. In addition to the active substance, it contains propylene glycol. It prevents skin from drying out and relieves puffiness. The cost of this drug is significantly higher compared to Acyclovir.
Vivorax. The attending physician prescribes this drug if the patient has an allergic reaction to Acyclovir. Despite the fact that the active substance of both drugs is the same, Vivorax does not cause side effects. This is due to the supply of the component in bound form. This product should not be used during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the fetus.
Gervirax. Contains not only acyclovir, but also propylene glycol, cetyl alcohol, petroleum jelly, nipazole and cremophor. If the permissible dosage is exceeded, peeling of the skin, itching and redness occurs.
Virolex. The use of this product is not recommended during pregnancy. In rare cases, it provokes headaches, neuralgic disorders, and allergies.

Acyclovir is an effective drug to combat herpes. It can be used only after consultation with a specialist. Only a doctor can correctly determine how many days to use it and in what dosage. Strictly follow all recommendations, and the manifestations of the disease will quickly disappear.

Acyclovir how quickly it works

Everyone has encountered the herpes virus at least once in their life, and many more than once. It is the causative agent of chicken pox, shingles and, of course, the annoying herpes that appears on the lips, under the nose, and on the mucous membranes of the mouth or genitals. Perhaps one of the most popular drugs used to combat this virus is acyclovir. But how effective is this drug, how is it reviewed, and can it be harmful to health?

There are several varieties of the herpes virus that cause the diseases listed above. Most often we encounter the herpes simplex virus type 1. Once in the body, it remains there forever, that is, it is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to expel the virus. So why don't we walk around with lip rashes all year round?

The fact is that the immune system does not allow the virus to become active, but as soon as the immunity weakens, herpes is right there. That is why “colds” on the lips or mucous membranes often occur along with the flu, or after other illnesses accompanied by a decrease in the body’s protective functions. In other words, herpes simplex is an indicator of weak protection, a signal of the need to strengthen the immune system. If your protection is complete, then you won’t think about herpes all year round. Well, the frequency of its appearance and severity depend on how reduced the immune system is.

Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It disrupts the division and reproduction of viral particles, but does not affect the immune system. That is, to some extent, using it, a person fights not so much with the cause - weakened immunity, but with the consequence - the active herpes virus and the result of its “work”.

On the other hand, while the sick person gets his immunity in order, herpes on the lips will cause a lot of inconvenience. There are special problems for children, whose protection is not yet complete and, moreover, is subject to serious attacks. This is where acyclovir comes to the rescue, as it fights the symptoms of herpes - itching, burning, pain, swelling, that is, makes it less pronounced. Therefore, after using acyclovir, herpes is usually easier to tolerate and goes away faster. But remember that by using this medicine, you do not protect yourself from subsequent multiple relapses of herpes, but by systematically strengthening your immune system, you significantly reduce the chances of the virus becoming more active in the future.

It must be admitted that reviews of acyclovir are sometimes very diverse. Some people are saved from emerging herpes only with it, while others, having tried it once, swore off using it. What is this connected with?

First, the effectiveness of acyclovir largely depends on how early you start treatment with it. Remember carefully the sensations that arise before the bubbles appear on your lips. Usually, at the site of a future “cold,” a slight tingling or itching is felt, and if you look closely, one or two bubbles have already appeared. Those who start using acyclovir at this stage have every chance of getting rid of herpes within hours, sometimes even preventing its appearance. So, the basic rule is that the sooner you use acyclovir, the more benefit you will get from it. By the way, the frequency of applying the ointment to the affected area is also of great importance.

Secondly, in some people who experience recurrent herpes, the virus has spread too “deeply”, so they require not only local treatment, but systemic therapy. Without knowing this, people who are sick regularly apply acyclovir to the sore, hoping that it will disappear, but this does not happen.

Finally, there are those who have increased sensitivity to acyclovir, the active substance. In this case, the course of herpes can only worsen due to the body’s inadequate response to acyclovir. Itching and burning intensify, swelling increases and redness of the skin area intensifies.

Among the advantages of acyclovir, one can note, of course, its low cost, in contrast to the popular analogue Zovirax, which is based on the same active ingredient acyclovir, which means it is no different in effectiveness. It is also worth recognizing that in the early stages of the onset of herpes, acyclovir is often effective, and with recurrent herpes, after a course of taking pills, it is sometimes possible to forget about the rashes. The use of ointment helps to reduce the discomfort from herpes.

As for the release forms, there are several of them and they are suitable for the treatment of various herpetic diseases. Ointment for external use is applied in a thin layer to the affected area (except for the mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes and genitals) 5 times a day until the rash disappears. The tablets should be taken orally, for adults and children over two years of age, 3 to 5 times a day. For children under two years old, 1 mg per day is sufficient. The duration of the course of such treatment should not be less than 5 days, but not more than 10 days.

People with renal failure, and indeed with kidney disease in general, should be especially careful with tablets, since acyclovir is still somewhat harmful to this organ. Therefore, such patients require dosage adjustment, and it is advisable to take the tablets under the supervision of a doctor, periodically taking blood and urine tests.

Pregnant women should not take acyclovir tablets without consulting a doctor. Also, they should not be taken by nursing women, since the active substance is excreted in milk.

Side effects from the use of acyclovir are observed less often, mainly in people with hypersensitivity to the active substance. They can manifest themselves as itching, redness, swelling, nausea and dizziness. In any case, if you feel worse, stop using acyclovir and consult a doctor.

Acyclovir is a powerful word in antiviral therapy

The creation of Acyclovir was perceived in the medical world as a new era in the treatment of viral diseases. Due to its high selectivity along with low toxicity, Acyclovir has become one of the most popular antiviral drugs.

Before you continue reading: If you are looking for an effective method of getting rid of a runny nose, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis or colds, then be sure to look at this section of the site after reading this article. This information has helped so many people, we hope it will help you too! So, now back to the article.

In the 21st century, Acyclovir marked the beginning of a whole group of drugs that successfully cope with viruses. Despite the fact that current competitors have some advantages over Acyclovir, the parent drug is still widely used.

Acyclovir's popularity is undoubtedly enhanced by the fact that external dosage forms are sold without a prescription. Belonging to the OTC group (from the English expression Over the Counterе - over the counter) once again proves the high safety of the medicine.

Let's try to figure out how Acyclovir works and how effective different dosage forms of this drug are.

The drug comes from the sea

Few people know that the active substance Acyclovir is of natural origin. The basis for the synthesis of the drug was nucleosides isolated from the Caribbean sponge Cryptotethya Crypta, living in the Caribbean Sea.

Interestingly, substances were isolated from the same Caribbean sponge that were used to synthesize some anticancer drugs. But let's return to our antiviral medicine.

The inventor of Acyclovir is considered to be the American scientist Schaffer, who patented a new medicine for herpes in 1979. Another American, pharmacologist Elion, played a major role in studying the drug. In 1988, the researcher was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine, including for the study of Acyclovir.

Composition and release forms of Acyclovir

The active ingredient of the drug with the trade name “Acyclovir”, as well as its numerous analogues, is acyclovir.

The drug is available in a variety of dosage forms.

External dosage forms

Acyclovir eye ointment with a concentration of 3%;
Cream, active ingredient concentration 5%;
Acyclovir ointment 5%.

Note that different manufacturers produce ointment weighing 5, 10, 15 grams.

Some cosmetics manufacturers produce lipsticks containing Acyclovir. Such products are not classified as drugs, although they still have some antiviral effects.

Oral, that is, tablet dosage forms

Parenteral (injection) dosage forms

Acyclovir powder for injection 250 mg.

The parenteral form is used to treat severe viral infections. As a rule, such pathologies require inpatient treatment, so outpatients usually do not encounter the injection form of release.

Acyclovir cream and ointment - is there a difference?

When purchasing topical Acyclovir, some patients face a dilemma. The fact is that the drug is produced in two external dosage forms at once, the difference between which is sometimes difficult for even pharmacists to clearly explain.

Therefore, it’s probably time to explain how the cream differs from the ointment. So, the main difference between these two dosage forms is the base.

Anticipating readers' questions, we immediately note that the base is a pharmacologically inert substance, which is necessary for the uniform and stable distribution of the drug substance. That is, the base of the ointment, cream or liniment is devoid of pharmacological effect.

The basis of the ointment is fatty substances, for example, lanolin, petroleum jelly and other components. Creams contain a much smaller amount of fatty substances, so the cream is sometimes called a “soft” ointment. Due to the different content of fatty components in cream and ointment, these dosage forms differ in pharmacokinetics, that is, the rate of absorption and distribution.

Thus, ointments are absorbed slowly and can remain on the skin for quite a long time, distributing gradually. Creams are absorbed quickly, leaving no greasy marks on the skin and clothes.

When choosing between Acyclovir cream and ointment, it is worth assessing the surface on which you will apply the drug. For the treatment of open inflamed elements, it is usually preferable to use an ointment. It will perform two functions at once: antiviral and moisturizing, preventing damage to the healing elements.

If the rashes are located on areas of the body that come into contact with clothing, you should use a non-greasy cream.

Pharmacological action of Acyclovir: explanation of instructions

It is no secret that often the stumbling block in the instructions for a medicine is the clause on pharmacological action, and Acyclovir is no exception to the rule. It can be difficult for the average patient to understand the numerous terms that describe complex biochemical processes. Let's try to explain how the drug works.

So, the medicine first penetrates the blood, after which it enters the cells affected by the virus. Viruses sensitive to Acyclovir produce their own special enzyme that ensures vital activity - thymidine kinase. Under the action of the enzyme, the drug undergoes a slight chemical transformation, turning into Acyclovir phosphate.

In this transformed form, the new substance can be integrated into the viral DNA chain. Having made his way into the very lair of the enemy, Acyclovir conducts subversive activities there, which, as a rule, ends in victory. The drug, which contains DNA, blocks further synthesis of the main molecule of the virus, which provides its genetic program.

Thus, Acyclovir stops further replication (multiplication) of sensitive viruses.

Activity spectrum of Acyclovir

Among the viruses sensitive to the action of the drug are species from the herpesvirus family. Let's try to list them in descending order of sensitivity to Acyclovir: herpes simplex virus type I (HSV-1), type II (HSV-2), varicella zoster virus, Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus (CMV).

Resistance to Acyclovir is quite rare. Most often, drug resistance is observed in immunocompromised patients. You should not unfoundedly classify yourself in this category if you have recurrent herpes relapses three times a year. Or you get sick from every draft.

As a rule, immunocompetent patients include people who have had an organ or bone marrow transplant, are HIV-infected, or are taking special medications that suppress the immune system.

In cases of severe immunodeficiency, viruses produce very small amounts of thymidine kinase. As a result, the entire biochemical chain that ensures the pharmacological activity of Acyclovir is disrupted, and the drug simply does not work.

Herpes viruses are everywhere, or where does this nasty herpes come from?

About 60% of the world's population is infected with the herpes virus. As a rule, we become infected with the herpes simplex virus type 1, which causes cold sores, in childhood. HSV type 2, responsible for a rather serious disease, genital herpes, is transmitted mainly through sexual contact. Therefore, the total number of people infected with HSV-2 is not so impressive.

Other pests of the herpesvirus family are also widespread. The same 60% of the population is infected with cytomegalovirus, despite the fact that the mode of transmission is usually sexual.

The leader in these statistics is undoubtedly the chickenpox virus with the beautiful Latin name Varicella zoster. After all, almost 100% of children suffer from common childhood chickenpox. And after recovery, the smallpox virus enters the nerve ganglia, where it continues to “sleep” throughout our lives. So it turns out that every first person on the planet is infected with the chickenpox virus.

Decreased immunity as the first step to activation of herpes

However, despite this frightening ubiquity, the situation is not so sad. In most cases, the immune system independently copes with herpes viruses, which persist in a latent, that is, inactive state.

But when immunity decreases, viruses can quickly become active, and then we may need treatment with Acyclovir.

When does this happen? Immunosuppression may be due to:

For example, hormonal changes in adolescents, pregnancy or breastfeeding are accompanied by some decrease in immunity.

It is known that minor immunosuppression affects young children and the elderly.

Pathological reasons, namely:

condition after organ or bone marrow transplantation;
HIV infection;
uncontrolled diabetes mellitus;
malignant neoplasms.

The use of medications that reduce immunity (immunosuppressants).

As a rule, such drugs are taken after organ or bone marrow transplantation, as well as in the treatment of cancer.

In healthy adults, immunity may be temporarily reduced by:

poor quality nutrition;
stress;
hard physical labor;
hypothermia and exposure to other adverse factors.

So, in general, there are plenty of opportunities for the activation of herpes viruses. Let's look separately at the use of Acyclovir as an effective antiviral agent for each specific disease.

Acyclovir for the treatment of herpes simplex of the mucous membranes, eyes and systemic herpes

Herpes of the mucous membranes, especially recurrent ones, is a fairly common disease that causes a lot of trouble. Note that sometimes stomatitis and gingivitis - inflammation of the oral mucosa and gums - are also caused by activation of HSV-1. Usually, for mild herpes of the mucous membranes, external Acyclovir ointment or cream is sufficient.

In case of pathology of moderate severity, as a rule, oral therapy with Acyclovir in the form of tablets with a dosage of 200 or 400 mg is added to external dosage forms.

Severe forms of herpes, including systemic herpes, which develops with severe immunosuppression, are treated in hospitals using injectable Acyclovir.

Acyclovir tablets and eye ointment are used to treat keratitis (inflammation of the cornea) associated with the herpes simplex virus in HIV-infected patients.

In addition, tablet dosage forms are used to prevent relapses of ophthalmic diseases caused by HSV in immunocompetent adults and children over 12 years of age. As a rule, the drug is indicated for patients with a history of herpetic blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), conjunctivitis, keratitis or iritis (inflammation of the iris) within the previous 12 months.

According to standard protocols for the treatment of HSV, Acyclovir is considered the drug of choice for the treatment of herpes encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).

In pediatrics, the medicine is used as a first-line treatment for congenital herpes in newborns. Manifestations of the disease include lesions of the eyes, skin and oral mucosa, as well as disseminated, that is, widespread infection.

Acyclovir: a treatment for genital herpes

Labial herpes, which affects the paranasal area, will seem like a minor nuisance compared to the manifestations of genital herpes. The classic symptom of the disease is the appearance of small itchy rashes on the mucous membrane of the genitals and anus, the elements of which contain a colorless liquid.

Treatment of genital herpes usually includes a serious regimen aimed at improving the immune status in general and at combating type 2 HSV. Adequate therapy can reduce the number of relapses of the disease to a minimum. Unfortunately, no doctor can guarantee that the manifestations of genital herpes will leave you forever.

So, Acyclovir tablets are used to treat all stages of the disease, from the initial stages to chronic recurrent infection, namely:

Initial episodes of genital herpes in adults and adolescents, including HIV-infected people;

Initial episodes of genital herpes, manifested in the form of proctitis (inflammation of the rectum);

Recurrent episodes of genital herpes in adults and adolescents.

Acyclovir for chickenpox

Mild chickenpox usually does not require any specific drug therapy. Even creative daily drawings on the body, which many adults love so much and all children hate so much, rather serve as a sedative for parents. After all, almost every first mother and every second father cannot look calmly at the “torment” of a child covered with a thick rash, frantically scratching his colorful pimples.

So parents draw intricate patterns every morning. Moreover, the color of these arts can be brilliant green, if brilliant green is used as paint, or poisonous crimson, when the doctor prefers fucorcin. And the child, by the way, recovers completely independently, and the outcome of the disease is predetermined - chickenpox is doomed from the very beginning.

Therefore, if the doctor prescribed Acyclovir to your child for simple, mild chickenpox, you should think about it. The need to use any antiviral drugs or its derivatives in immunocompetent, that is, generally healthy children and adolescents, is highly questionable.

However, in some cases, the course of chickenpox still requires special attention from an infectious disease doctor. As a rule, the average degree of the disease is recorded in weakened children. Cases of chickenpox in adults are almost always a severe infection, which is often treated in hospitals using modern antiviral drugs.

So, Acyclovir is a first-line drug for the treatment of chickenpox in:

children and adolescents with weakened immune systems;
adults;
HIV-infected patients.

Hello from childhood: herpes zoster

Few people know that both chickenpox and shingles are caused by the same varicella zoster virus, Varicella zoster. The virus, which persists in the nerve ganglia after chickenpox in childhood, can make itself known again after 40–60 years.

Most often, herpes zoster, or shingles, develops in older people over the age of 60. Despite the fact that the disease, like chickenpox, goes away on its own, infectious disease specialists prefer to use antiviral and immunomodulatory therapy. You may ask, why take extra medications?

The fact is that drug treatment of herpes zoster minimizes the possibility of complications, which can be quite serious, including muscle paralysis. In addition, antiviral therapy promotes rapid recovery, as well as a decrease in the severity of the clinical manifestations of the disease.

Acyclovir is the drug of choice for severe or widespread cases of herpes zoster in immunocompetent adults and in HIV-infected patients. In addition, Acyclovir is widely used for the treatment of herpes zoster in adults and children with a normal immune response, as well as in weakened patients.

Infectious mononucleosis

Despite data on the activity of Acyclovir against the causative agent of infectious mononculosis, the Epstein-Barr virus, the drug is rarely used to treat this disease.

This is due to the fact that the Epstein-Barr virus is eliminated on its own and usually does not require any specific treatment.

Information about the effectiveness of Acyclovir therapy for uncomplicated, severe or chronic infectious mononucleosis, as well as other manifestations of viral carriage (for example, oral hairy leukoplakia) is very contradictory.

Does acyclovir help with cytomegalovirus infection?

The prevalence of cytomegalovirus is eloquently demonstrated by data provided by the World Health Organization. They claim that 90% of the world's population over the age of 80 has serological evidence of infection. That is, if we live to such an advanced age, then CMV infection is almost inevitable.

And there's nothing wrong with that. After all, the disease, like other infections caused by herpes viruses, usually occurs latently, that is, without clinical manifestations. And it doesn't cause us any trouble.

Cytomegalovirus infection is dangerous if a pregnant woman becomes infected with it for the first time, especially in the early stages of pregnancy. Then the virus infects the fetus, and this is fraught with the development of various defects in the child.

In addition, CMV, safely kept from activation by our immune system, can wake up if the immune system fails. In this case, the disease can develop rapidly and requires correct treatment.

It is difficult to answer the question whether Acyclovir helps with active CMV infection. But it is definitely ineffective for current active disease.

However, Acyclovir is indicated for the prevention of cytomegalovirus infection in patients after organ or red bone marrow transplantation. However, in practice, more powerful derivatives of the drug are more often used; in particular, Ganciclovir is the drug of choice.

Acyclovir cream and ointment - how to use?

External dosage forms of Acyclovir are considered very safe. And first of all, this is due to the fact that the medicine, when applied to the skin or mucous membranes, is practically not absorbed into the blood. And, therefore, it does not enter the body and does not have a systemic effect.

There is one rule for using external forms of the drug for both children and adults. A cream or ointment containing 5% Acyclovir is applied to the affected areas five times during the day at regular intervals.

I would like to note that the effectiveness of the ointment or cream does not depend at all on what layer you apply the medicine. An opinion based on a direct relationship between the thickness of the ointment layer and its effectiveness does not stand up to criticism. After all, our skin is not a bottomless barrel. Only a strictly defined amount of the active substance is absorbed into the dermis.

Therefore, pharmacists warn that the cream or ointment should be applied to the affected areas of the skin in a thin layer.

I would like to note that external forms of Acyclovir - cream and ointment, including ophthalmic, intended for the treatment of herpetic keratitis and blepharitis, are sold without a doctor's prescription. OTC drugs sold in the public domain also include external preparations of Acyclovir derivatives. Among the most effective and popular external antiviral agents, we note the drug containing Penciclovir - Fenistil Pencivir.

Acyclovir tablets: pharmacokinetic data

Tablet forms of any medicine are not as safe as external ones. This is understandable: after all, the drug enters the intestines, where it is absorbed into the blood.

This axiom fully applies to Acyclovir. Therefore, unlike ointments or creams, you will need a doctor's prescription to purchase tablets. Note that only the doctor and no one else should write down the regimen for using the medicine.

Acyclovir tablets have a fairly low bioavailability, which is only 15–30%. However, the drug penetrates perfectly into the organs and biological fluids of the body. Note that neither the blood-brain nor the placental barrier is an obstacle to the active substance. This means that when taken orally, Acyclovir penetrates into the cerebrospinal fluid, into the circulatory system of the fetus, and into breast milk.

I would like to note that during treatment with Acyclovir you can take it at any time, regardless of meals. The medicine is absorbed at the same rate regardless of whether you drink it on an empty stomach or after a heavy dinner.

Acyclovir tablets: standard dosages for children

The treatment regimen with Acyclovir depends on the specific disease. So, let's figure out how to dose Acyclovir for children with herpes virus infection.

Labial herpes (lesions of the perioral area)

Herpetic gingivostomatitis (damage to the oral mucosa and gums)

For HIV-infected children with severe gingivostomatitis, a dosage of 20 mg of Acyclovir per kilogram of body weight is recommended three times a day, the duration of treatment is from 7 to 14 days. The maximum dosage of the drug according to the instructions is 400 mg of Acyclovir per day.

The dosage is slightly lower for immunocompetent, that is, generally healthy children: 15 mg per kilogram of body weight per day. Moreover, the frequency of use is five times a day, and the course of treatment for stomatitis or gingivitis with Acyclovir is a week.

I would like to note that stomatitis and gingivitis are not always of a viral nature. Often the disease is caused by bacteria or fungi. Therefore, taking Acyclovir without a doctor’s recommendation is a big mistake, possibly delaying recovery.

Prevention of recurrence of herpetic ophthalmic infections

For periodically recurring episodes of herpetic blepharitis, keratitis, iritis in children over 12 years of age, it is recommended to take 400 mg of Acyclovir twice a day. In some cases, doctors prefer to dose 80 mg per kilogram of body weight, divided into three doses.

The optimal course of treatment is still unclear. Most often, treatment is long-term and lasts 12–18 months.

For immunocompetent children over two years of age, the therapeutic dose of Acyclovir is 20 mg per kilogram of body weight four times a day. The course of treatment is short - only five days.

Treatment of chickenpox with Acyclovir is most effective if it begins simultaneously with the first early symptoms of the disease (within 24 hours after the appearance of the rash).

Treatment should begin within 48 hours after the initial rash.

Acyclovir dosage for adults

Just as in the treatment of children, for herpetic infections in adults, the course of Acyclovir therapy depends on the disease.

Herpetic rashes on the skin and mucous membranes

When the elements of the rash are localized on the mucous membranes of the mouth and skin, the dosage is 400 mg of Acyclovir every four hours (that is, five times a day). The course of treatment is one to two weeks.

The treatment regimen for the most common manifestation of herpes - on the lips and perioral area - is very simple. You can reduce the intensity of the rash and speed up its healing by taking 400 mg of Acyclovir five times a day. The average course of treatment is five days.

Herpetic keratitis and other ophthalmic manifestations

Treatment of ophthalmic manifestations includes the use of 400 mg of Acyclovir five times daily. The peculiarity of the therapeutic course is its duration, which is very important for preventing relapses.

Prevention of eye infections includes the use of 400 mg of Acyclovir twice daily for 12–18 months.

Treatment of the first episode.

However, most experts adhere to an alternative regimen - 400 mg three times a day or 200 mg five times a day for 7-10 days. If symptoms persist at the end of the course, treatment with Acyclovir can be continued.

Treatment of recurrent episodes.

According to the instructions for use of oral Acyclovir, the course of treatment is 400 mg three times a day or 800 mg twice a day for 3–5 days.

The sooner treatment for recurrent genital herpes is started, the higher the effectiveness of therapy. Therefore, Acyclovir should be taken immediately after the first signs of relapse appear.

The dosage of Acyclovir for chickenpox in adults is 20 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, divided into 4 doses. The course of treatment is five days. The effectiveness of therapy depends on early initiation of treatment. Therefore, when the first signs of chickenpox appear, you should start taking Acyclovir.

The dosage of Acyclovir for herpes zoster is 800 mg every four hours for 7–10 days. Treatment should begin within the first 48 hours after the rash appears.

When should you not use Acyclovir?

Contraindications to the use of Acyclovir cream and ointment:

We have already mentioned that external dosage forms have a high level of safety. This is also confirmed by the fact that there are simply no contraindications to the use of Acyclovir cream or ointment. Of course, except for one thing:

1. the presence of individual sensitivity to Acyclovir.

As a rule, an individual reaction is highly unlikely. If you have never experienced an allergy (for example, allergic rhinitis and other symptoms) to medications, as well as petroleum jelly, lanolin and other components of ointments, then you can safely use topical Acyclovir.

Contraindications to the use of Acyclovir tablets:

2. breastfeeding period.

It has been proven that the drug penetrates perfectly into breast milk. Therefore, it is better to avoid using Acyclovir tablets during lactation.

3. individual hypersensitivity.

The chance of an allergic reaction is less than 1%.

Can Acyclovir be used during pregnancy?

The effect of Acyclovir on pregnancy in humans has not been sufficiently studied. The lack of full-fledged studies is not due to the omission of the manufacturer, but to the ethical component of such tests. However, experiments on animals confirmed the absence of a negative effect of Acyclovir on the fetus.

In addition, post-marketing trials also did not reveal any negative effects of this drug on pregnancy. Therefore, to the question whether it is possible to be treated with Acyclovir during pregnancy, we will answer this way: the drug belongs to category B and can be used under the supervision of a doctor.

Adverse events during treatment with Acyclovir: what to expect?

Side effects of external forms of Acyclovir

local reaction.

It is very short-lived and manifests itself as redness, itching or tingling in the areas of application. Goes away on its own within a few minutes;

Possible in less than 0.1% of cases in sensitized, that is, sensitive patients.

Side effects of Acyclovir tablets and injections

very often (more than 12% of cases)

often (1-10% of cases)

The likelihood of nausea is much higher with long-term treatment with high doses of Acyclovir;

vomiting (less than 3% of patients).

If vomiting occurs, you should notify your doctor. You may have to switch to parenteral use of Acyclovir;

diarrhea (2-3% of cases).

An adequate response to stool disorders is the addition of antidiarrheal drugs containing loperamide to the treatment regimen;

headache (2% of cases).

The use of analgesics can neutralize this adverse effect.

rare (less than 1% of cases)

Acyclovir analogues: what to choose?

In any, even the most seedy pharmacy, you can easily find several analogues of Acyclovir. Large chain pharmacies can provide you with dozens of generics. Interestingly, the price of different analogues can fluctuate by two times or even more.

Let's try to list the most common analogues of Acyclovir:

1. Zovirax is the highest quality and most expensive drug produced by Glaxo. Zovirax is available as ophthalmic ointment, 5% cream or tablets containing 200 mg Acyclovir. In addition, the drug is available in powder form for injection.