Who is this for?
What is this drug?
Aciclovir is an antiviral medicine that works by stopping viruses from multiplying in your body, especially the herpes virus that causes cold sores, genital herpes, and chickenpox.
What is it used for?
Cold sores (fever blisters on the lips)genital herpeschickenpoxshingles (painful rash that comes from the chickenpox virus)herpes eye infections
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Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
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How to take this drug
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.
What if I Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not take a double dose to make up for it.
What to watch out for
Drink plenty of water while taking aciclovir tablets to prevent kidney problems, especially in Nigeria's hot climate. Complete the full course even if you feel better — stopping early can let the virus come back stronger. Buy only from registered pharmacies; avoid buying from roadside sellers or unverified online shops, as fake antiviral drugs are common.
Common Side Effects
- Headache
- feeling dizzy
- nausea or stomach upset
- tiredness
- skin rash or itching (especially with the cream)
Serious Side Effects
- Difficulty breathing or swelling of the face
- lips
- or throat (allergic reaction) — go to the hospital immediately. Reduced urination or blood in urine (could mean kidney problems). Confusion
- trembling
- or hallucinations — stop the drug and see a doctor right away.
Drug Interactions
Probenecid (used for gout) can increase aciclovir levels in your blood and raise the risk of side effects. Be careful if you are also taking medicines that can affect the kidneys, such as some antibiotics like gentamicin. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are taking.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Aciclovir with your other drugs?
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning
Aciclovir should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if your doctor says the benefit outweighs the risk — consult your doctor before using it.
Who Should NOT Take This
- 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.
How to Store
Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C — away from direct sunlight and heat, which can be intense in Nigeria. Keep the cream tube tightly closed after use. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Brand Names
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Brand Packaging Images
Genuine packaging for Virest 400 Tablet
Adult
mrdokita.com.ng
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Virest 400 Tablet — Reference Image(1/2)
NAFDAC Number
04-1935
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Authenticity Checklist
If your packaging looks significantly different from this image, do not use the drug and report it below.