Acycliz Tablets (Acyclovir)

Adult administration

For the treatment of herpes simplex virus infections, administer Acyclovir 200 mg every 4 hours, 5 times a day for 5 days. For severe primary infections, treatment can be extended. In severely immunocompromised patients or those with gastrointestinal absorption disorders, the dose can be increased to 400 mg per administration or switched to intravenous administration. For prevention of herpes simplex infection in patients with normal immune function, dose 200 mg 4 times a day.

Child administration

Children over 2 years of age receive the same dosage as adults. For those under 2 years, half the adult dose is given. For treating chickenpox in children over 2 years, administer 20 mg/kg (up to a maximum of 800 mg) divided into 4 doses per day.

This medication should not be used in patients with a history of allergic reactions to this drug or its components, or to valacyclovir. Patients with impaired kidney function should take caution as there is a higher likelihood of psychiatric adverse reactions when using this drug. Patients with weak liver function should be cautious as this medication could further impair liver function. This drug should be used very carefully in infants and children, and caution is also required for the elderly as they may exhibit adverse reactions more easily. While taking this medication, serious allergic reactions such as anaphylactic shock can occur rarely, so symptoms should be carefully monitored. If there's a drop in blood pressure or difficulty in breathing, the medication should be stopped immediately and medical assistance sought. If any skin rashes, fever, vesicles, or urticaria are observed, discontinue use and seek appropriate medical treatment. Severe skin reactions, such as alopecia or dermatitis, and in severe cases, Stevens-Johnson syndrome could occur, so skin condition should be monitored closely. Various neurological symptoms, such as mental confusion, hallucinations, seizures, drowsiness, and anxiety can manifest, particularly more frequently in patients who are elderly or have impaired kidney function. Kidney issues might arise, leading to symptoms such as renal failure, hematuria, or proteinuria, making regular checks of kidney status important. Blood-related issues can lead to anemia, leukopenia or leukocytosis, and bleeding, necessitating blood tests to monitor status. Hepatitis, jaundice, and hepatic dysfunction may occur, requiring attention to liver health while taking this medication. Gastrointestinal symptoms may include gastritis, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain; monitoring digestive status is important. Systemically, fever or weakness, and headache might present, requiring reporting of any changes in overall health status. Musculoskeletal symptoms such as joint pain or muscle pain can result. Cardiac effects, such as irregular heartbeats, blood pressure alterations, and chest pain may occur rarely, requiring careful cardiovascular monitoring. Urinary disturbances may arise; hence if any difficulty in urination is sensed, it's advisable to inform medical personnel. Hydration is essential during treatment, particularly to prevent dehydration when high doses are administered. If symptoms do not improve or worsen, alternative therapies should be considered, as this drug is most effective when administered at the onset of symptoms. For patients with compromised immune function, intravenous administration may be recommended for treatment. This medication needs to be used with caution when operating vehicles or dangerous machinery, especially since patients with impaired kidney function may experience altered consciousness more readily. Drug interactions may occur when used concurrently with other medications, so especially when combined with medications impacting kidney function or specific drugs, consultation with a healthcare provider is necessary. Pregnant women or those who may become pregnant should use this medication only if its benefits outweigh the risks to the fetus, and nursing mothers should cease breastfeeding while on this medication. In infants or children, use should be minimal and as necessary; especially in newborns or low birth weight infants, caution is required as safety is not yet established. Elderly patients may retain the drug in their body longer due to decreased kidney function, necessitating dose and interval adjustments along with ensuring adequate hydration. Overdose may cause kidney damage and can lead to serious symptoms like coma or seizures, thus immediate medical assistance is required, with potential for blood dialysis being necessary. Prolonged high-dose use of this medication could potentially affect genetic traits or reproductive function, so adherence to recommended dosing is advised.

Serious side effects

Shock, anaphylactic shock, anaphylactoid reactions, hypotension, respiratory distress, chest tightness, hives, urticarial erythema, skin and mucous membrane syndrome (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), toxic epidermal necrolysis (Lyell syndrome), jaundice, disturbances of consciousness, coma, confusion, delirium, seizures, encephalopathy, hallucinations, psychosis, renal failure, hypertension, urination difficulties, palpitations

Mild side effects

• Hypersensitivity reactions
• photosensitivity
• fixed drug eruptions
• rashes
• fever
• vesicles
• alopecia
• erythema multiforme
• consciousness disturbances
• disorientation

This medication should be stored in a tightly closed container to protect it from air and moisture. It is best kept at a temperature between 1 to 30 degrees Celsius.

Appearance

Light blue round tablet

Package unit

30 tablets/bottle, 200 tablets/bottle