Acyclovir
Antiviral
Nucleoside antiviral for herpes simplex and zoster.
Generic name: Acyclovir
Brand names: Zovirax, Acyclovir Stada
Prescription required
Dosage
Genital herpes: 200 mg five times daily for 5–10 days. Zoster: 800 mg five times daily for 7 days. IV preparation for severe cases.
Side effects
Nausea, headache, dizziness. Rarely: acute kidney injury (especially with rapid IV infusion or dehydration).
Contraindications
Acyclovir hypersensitivity; dose reduction needed in renal impairment.
Description
Acyclovir is selectively activated by viral thymidine kinase and inhibits viral DNA polymerase. First-line for herpes labialis, genital herpes, varicella, and herpes zoster — best started within 72 hours of symptom onset.