Acyclovir is an antiviral drug used primarily in the treatment of herpes (including shingles and genital herpes) and AIDS. It has also been known to effectively treat chickenpox. While it won’t and can’t cure herpes, it has the potential to prevent herpes sores or blisters. This is an antiviral medication that falls into the class of synthetic nucleoside analogues. It’s used to treat infections that are caused by specific types of viruses.

If you are someone who experiences frequent episodes then Acyclovir can also be used to help reduce the number of episodes in the future. While it can significantly reduce the length and severity of outbreaks, it is not a cure for herpes. It effectively decreases pain and itching and helps sores heal faster and prevents new ones from occurring. It can also help prevent and decrease the chances of the virus spreading to other parts of the body and having more serious infections.

What is Acyclovir Prescribed For?

Acyclovir is prescribed to treat the symptoms of chickenpox, shingles, and herpes. It not only treats the symptoms but is prescribed to also prevent ongoing genital herpes infections. In addition, it treats cold sores that form around the mouth (caused by herpes simplex). It is used to decrease pain and increase the healing speed of sores. If you’re infected with the herpes virus then this medication can work to prevent outbreaks of genital herpes in some cases. This medication might also be prescribed for other reasons and uses including to treat eczema herpeticum. Depending on your outbreaks and how often they occur, adults and children 12 years of age and older may be directed to take 200 to 400 mg two to five times a day for five days or up to twelve months.

How Does Acyclovir Work?

What Acyclovir does is it lowers the ability of the herpes virus from multiplying in your body. Its antiviral drug will treat the symptoms of your infection but keep in mind that it’s not a cure. It’s classified as a chain terminator and functions to inhibit DNA polymerase. The intended purpose of it is to stop the spread of the herpes virus. You may not notice a reduction in your symptoms for up to three days. The herpes virus can still live in your body even while taking Acyclovir so it’s always possible you may see symptoms pop up later after taking it.

What Are The Side Effects of Acyclovir?

While the Acyclovir tablet won’t cause you to feel drowsy, it does have some other side effects to be aware of. These side effects may or may not include weakness, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. Some have also reported serious side effects so be sure to contact your doctor or 911 if you believe you are having a medical emergency. You may also experience side effects if you’re taking Acyclovir with other medications that interact with this drug. Talk to your doctor and let them know what other medications you are taking currently.