Medications and Drugs

GENERIC NAME: ACYCLOVIR - INJECTION (ay-SYE-klo-veer)

BRAND NAME(S): Zovirax

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to treat herpes infections of the skin, mouth, brain, mucous membranes, genital herpes, herpes zoster (shingles), and chickenpox in some individuals. This medication does not cure herpes, but relieves the pain and may make the infection clear faster.

HOW TO USE: Begin using as soon as symptoms occur. Must be given by intravenous injection only. Infuse at a constant rate over at least one hour. This must not be injected rapidly or all at once. Use this medication as directed. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Try to use the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. This will ensure a constant blood level of the medication and is most effective.

SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea, lightheadedness, headache, dizziness, itching or rash. These effects should disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become worse, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you notice: pain or swelling at the injection site, unusual tiredness, tremors, confusion, change in amount of urine, increased thirst, vomiting. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: stomach pain, yellowing eyes and skin, dark urine, fever, fatigue. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease, any allergies. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication should be used cautiously during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.