Acyclovir Tablet (Acyclovir)

Adult dosage

For treating herpes simplex virus infections using acyclovir, administer 200 mg 5 times a day at 4-hour intervals for 5 days, with the possibility of extending treatment for severe initial infections. Immunocompromised patients or those with gastrointestinal absorption disorders may increase the single dose to 400 mg or change to intravenous administration. To prevent herpes simplex infections in immunocompetent patients, administer 200 mg 4 times a day.

Children's dosage

For children over 2 years, the dosage follows that of adults, while for children under 2 years, half of the adult dosage should be given. For treating chickenpox in children over 2 years, administer 20 mg per kg of body weight 4 times a day for 5 days, with a maximum single dose of

This medication should not be used in patients who have had allergic reactions to this medication, its ingredients, or valacyclovir. It also contains lactose, so it should not be taken by patients with genetic conditions such as galactose intolerance, Lapp lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption syndrome. Patients with impaired kidney function are at higher risk for neuropsychiatric side effects when using this medication, so caution is necessary. Patients with decreased liver function should use this medication cautiously as it may further impair liver function. Infants, children, and the elderly should be particularly cautious when administering this medication, and the minimal effective dose should be used if necessary. This medication can rarely cause serious allergic reactions such as anaphylactic shock, so if symptoms such as low blood pressure, breathing difficulties, or chest tightness occur, use should be discontinued immediately and emergency treatment sought. If skin rash, fever, blisters, or hives develop, use of this medication should be stopped, and appropriate treatment should be sought. Rarely, side effects such as hair loss, severe skin disorders, neuropsychiatric symptoms, kidney abnormalities, blood disorders, liver dysfunction, and gastrointestinal issues may occur, so if any unusual symptoms arise, consultation with medical personnel should be immediate. For treatment of herpes simplex and chickenpox, the medication should be taken for 5 days, and for herpes zoster, for 7 days. If symptoms do not improve or worsen, alternative treatments should be considered. Starting treatment as soon as symptoms appear is the most effective; for herpes zoster, treatment should begin within 5 days of skin symptom onset, and for chickenpox, within 3 days. Immunocompromised patients may consider intravenous treatment. To prevent dehydration and kidney damage during high doses, adequate fluid intake is essential. For prolonged and repeated use of this medication, consultation with medical personnel regarding continued use is necessary. This medication can cause disturbances in consciousness; caution should be exercised when driving or operating dangerous machinery, particularly in patients with impaired kidney function. When used with other medications, interactions may occur, so if taking other medications, it is essential to inform medical personnel. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should use this medication cautiously, as it may affect the fetus; breastfeeding should be suspended if taking this medication. In cases of overdose, serious side effects such as agitation, coma, or seizures may occur, and there is a risk of kidney damage, so caution is advised against overdose. If an overdose is suspected, seek medical attention immediately, and necessary treatments such as blood dialysis may be required. Animal studies have suggested that high doses may affect genetic abnormalities or reproductive function; however, these effects have not been reported at typical doses.

Serious side effects

Shock, anaphylactic shock, anaphylactoid reactions, hypotension, respiratory difficulties, chest tightness, hives, Stevens-Johnson syndrome (skin and mucosal severe reaction), toxic epidermal necrolysis (Lyell's syndrome), jaundice, coma, seizures, epileptic seizures, severe allergic reactions, severe skin reactions, respiratory problems, liver abnormalities (jaundice), severe neurological symptoms, severe swelling or urination issues, confusion.

Mild side effects

• Photosensitivity reactions
• fixed drug eruption
• rash
• fever
• blisters
• hives-like redness
• alopecia
• erythema multiforme
• disturbances in consciousness
• disorientation

When used domestically, this medication should be stored in a well-closed container at room temperature between 1 degree and 30 degrees Celsius. When exported overseas, it is important to store it in an airtight container that blocks light in a dry place under 25 degrees Celsius. Proper storage can help maintain the medication's effectiveness for an extended period.

Appearance

Light blue round tablets

Package unit

30 tablets/bottle, 100 tablets/bottle