Question 1

What is Aciclovir used for?

Accepted Answer

Cold sores (fever blisters on the lips), genital herpes, chickenpox, shingles (painful rash that comes from the chickenpox virus), herpes eye infections

Question 2

How do you take Aciclovir?

Accepted Answer

For cold sores or genital herpes: Take one 200 mg tablet five times a day (every 4 hours while awake, skip the night dose) for 5 days. For shingles: Take 800 mg five times a day for 7 days. Drink plenty of water while taking aciclovir to protect your kidneys. You can take it with or without food.

Question 3

What are the side effects of Aciclovir?

Accepted Answer

Headache, feeling dizzy, nausea or stomach upset, tiredness, skin rash or itching (especially with the cream)

Question 4

Who should not take Aciclovir?

Accepted Answer

People who are allergic to aciclovir or valaciclovir should not take this medicine. People with kidney problems should use it with caution and only under a doctor's supervision. Elderly patients and people who are dehydrated should be extra careful.

Question 5

Is Aciclovir safe during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Aciclovir should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if your doctor says the benefit outweighs the risk — consult your doctor before using it.

Aciclovir

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