Acyclovir: What It Does and How to Use It Safely

Acyclovir is a common antiviral used to treat herpes simplex and varicella zoster infections. It comes as tablets, capsules, ointment, and an IV form. Doctors prescribe it for cold sores, genital herpes, chickenpox, and shingles. The main goal is to reduce virus activity, shorten outbreaks, and ease symptoms. Use early for best results; treatment works best when started at the first sign of an outbreak.

How acyclovir works and when to use it

Acyclovir stops the virus from multiplying by blocking a key enzyme inside infected cells. It does not cure herpes but keeps outbreaks milder and less frequent. For oral herpes, short courses at the first tingle reduce severity. For genital herpes, daily suppressive therapy can cut recurrences and lower transmission risk. For shingles, higher doses for a week help blisters heal faster and reduce nerve pain. Acyclovir has few drug interactions but combining it with other kidney-cleared drugs raises the risk for kidney strain. Tell your prescriber about blood thinners, seizure medicines, or other antivirals. Pregnant or breastfeeding people should discuss risks and benefits; acyclovir is often used in pregnancy when needed but only under medical advice. Children get weight-based dosing, so never guess doses for kids.

Practical tips, dosing, and side effects

Take tablets with or without food and finish the full course your doctor gives. Typical adult doses vary: for cold sores a short course; for genital herpes either episodic or daily suppressive dosing; for shingles usually higher doses for seven days. Common side effects include nausea, headache, and dizziness. Rare but serious reactions like confusion or kidney problems can occur, especially in older adults or people with kidney disease. Drink water and tell your doctor about kidney issues or other medications.

Seek urgent care for severe symptoms, high fever, confusion, or signs of dehydration. If sores spread, don’t heal in a couple of weeks, or you have a weakened immune system, contact your provider. If you’re starting long term suppressive therapy, expect periodic follow ups to check kidney function and overall response.

To reduce spread, avoid direct contact during outbreaks, use condoms for genital herpes, and don’t share personal items that touch lesions. Antiviral therapy reduces but does not eliminate transmission risk. Vaccination is available for shingles and can lower the chance of shingles and postherpetic pain.

How fast does acyclovir work? Usually symptoms ease within a few days if started early. Can you take it with alcohol? Alcohol doesn’t interact strongly but avoid heavy drinking when ill. Can it prevent recurrences? Regular suppressive doses cut recurrences significantly.

If you have questions about dosing, side effects, or interactions, reach out to your healthcare provider. Carry a list of your medicines and health conditions to every visit.

Want more guidance? Check our site for articles on antivirals, shingles vaccine updates, herpes care tips, dosing guides, and money-saving options when buying medicines online near you today.