Acyclovir is an antiviral prescription medication used to prevent the herpes virus from growing and spreading throughout the body. It is not a cure for the virus, only a treatment for the symptoms associated with herpes.

Acyclovir is commonly prescribed to those who suffer from infections that were caused due to herpes viruses, including genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, chicken pox, and cytomegalovirus.

Acyclovir should be used strictly following the directions of your prescribing doctor. Do not shorten the period you were prescribed to take acyclovir, even if your symptoms are showing signs of improvement.

Due to the herpes virus being highly contagious, you should be conscious during sexual encounters at all times. Do not let your infected areas be exposed to coming into contact with other people while avoiding touching your eyes after touching these infected areas. Remember to regularly wash your hands to substantially decrease the risks of infecting other people.

Make sure you take this medication with plenty of water to prevent any complications with your kidneys.

To ensure your safety during your treatment with acyclovir, your doctor should be made aware of your complete medical history. Inform your doctor immediately if you have had kidney disease or a weak immune system that was caused by some sort of disease or from taking certain medications.

Acyclovir is unlikely to pose any potential harm to your unborn child during pregnancy, but if you are currently pregnant or plan to be during treatment, you should speak to your doctor.

However, acyclovir is known to excrete into breast milk when nursing your child. It is considered relatively safe to use this medication while nursing your child, but you should still consult your doctor about this matter before starting your treatment.

With taking any prescription medication, there is a potential risk of developing side effects from use. It is important to be aware of these side effects and report any of them you may experience to your doctor.

Here are some common side effects of acyclovir that you may experience:

• • Nausea
• • Vomiting
• • Diarrhea
• • General ill feeling
• • Headache

Some uncommon, but more serious side effects may include:

• • Bruising or bleeding easily
• • Small purple or red spots under your skin
• • Signs of a kidney problem, such as complications with urinating, swelling in the feet or ankles, and tiredness or breathlessness

Will taking acyclovir prevent my sexual partner from getting infected with herpes?

No, acyclovir does not stop the passing of the herpes virus to other people. Even if you are not showing any sort of symptoms of the virus, it is still possible that you may pass it onto others. It is recommended you avoid sexual intercourse your body still has active lesions.

How should I store my acyclovir tablets when I’m not using them?

When you’re not using acyclovir, make sure you store them safely in a dry and cool environment out of reach from young children and pets.