Acyclovir (ACIVIR Cream) 5%w/v cream is an antiviral agent that is intended for the treatment of chronic herpes in individuals with good immune system function. For use in patients aged 12 years and over. Each cream contains 5% w/v Acyclovir as its active ingredient.
Drug = Acyclovir
Strength = 5%w/v
How to use Acyclovir (ACIVIR Cream) 5%w/v Cream
Make sure that the area of application is clean and dry. Squeeze a pea sized amount onto clean fingers or cotton applicator and apply a thin layer of cream over the lesion. Make sure to apply the cream over the entire surface of the lesion. After the application, do not cover the area.
Use acyclovir cream only for the prescribed number of days and frequency. Do not use more than recommended since it does not offer any benefit to the user.
Dosage of Acyclovir (ACIVIR Cream) 5%w/v Cream
Adults and Children: Apply five times daily every 4 hours, do not apply the nighttime dose. Apply to lesions only preferably done during the early stage where there is redness of the area of the lesion, but may be applied on the later stages just before the crusting stage. Length of application is usually 7 days.
Herpes labialis: Continue for at least four days.
Genital herpes: Continue for five days but may be extended to a total of 10 days.
Missed Dose of Acyclovir (ACIVIR Cream) 5%w/v Cream
In cases where there is failure of application on the directed time. Apply the next dose promptly and continue as scheduled.
Overdose of Acyclovir (ACIVIR Cream) 5%w/v Cream
If you have used acyclovir more than the recommended dose, observe for any untoward symptoms and seek medical help.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any of the following Acyclovir, valaciclovir & propylene glycol
Side Effects of Acyclovir (ACIVIR Cream) 5%w/v Cream
Acyclovir may have the following side effects:
- Burning and stinging sensation on the area of application
- Dryness and flaking of the skin
- Itching
Warnings
Do not forget to inform your physician if you are taking any over the counter medications or food supplements as they may interact with Acyclovir.
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Acyclovir.
How Does It Work?
Acyclovir works by stopping the activity of viral DNA polymerase and DNA replication of different types of herpes viruses. Acyclovir is a highly active antiviral agent against Type I and II herpes simplex virus (HSV) and in vitro varicella-zoster virus.
Uses
Aciclovir is used to treat the following conditions:
- Skin infections caused by Herpes simplex virus
- Initial and recurrent genital herpes
- Herpes labialis
Special Precautions and Warnings
Take special precautions in taking Acyclovir if you have any of the following conditions:
- Severely immunocompromised patients
- Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)
- Bone marrow transplantation patients
- Pregnant or lactating mothers
Storage Conditions
- Store at temperatures not exceeding 30°C, away from direct sunlight
- Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
- Do not use Acyclovir after the date printed on the packaging..
