Genital Herpes treatment Aciclovir
What is Aciclovir?
Aciclovir is an antiviral medication for genital herpes. It works to address flare-ups and can be used as a suppression treatment to prevent recurrence. While there's no cure for herpes, and the virus persists in your body, the use of aciclovir can effectively halt or diminish the unpleasant symptoms associated with it.
For those seeking oral herpes treatment, we recommend using our cold sore products.
What is Aciclovir used to treat?
Aciclovir is primarily used to treat viral infections caused by herpes simplex viruses (HSV), including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles (herpes zoster). It may also be used to treat chickenpox.
Who can and cannot take medicines containing Aciclovir?
It is generally safe for adults and children, but the following should be taken into consideration:
Do not take aciclovir tablets and inform your doctor if you:
are allergic to aciclovir or any of the other ingredients in this medication
have moderate to severe kidney problems
are currently taking probenecid (a medicine for gout) or cimetidine (a medicine for stomach ulcers
Take special care with aciclovir tablets if you:
have impaired kidney function
are elderly
have neurological disorders or psychiatric disorders
are experiencing dehydration due to illness or insufficient fluid intake
have a history of kidney problems or are using other medications that may affect kidney function
If you’re taking other medicines:
inform your doctor if you are taking probenecid or cimetidine
be cautious if you are taking medicines that may affect kidney function or cause dehydration
If you’re undergoing tests:
inform your healthcare provider if you are taking aciclovir tablets
Pregnancy and breastfeeding:
consult your doctor before taking aciclovir tablets if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
avoid breastfeeding while using aciclovir tablets unless advised otherwise by your doctor
How do I know if I need a preventative course of treatment?
Should you experience over six genital herpes outbreaks within a year or struggle with notably severe symptoms, you may be better with a preventive herpes regimen. This entails taking two 400mg tablets of aciclovir daily for a duration ranging from 6 to 12 months. This proactive approach aims to reduce the likelihood of recurrent outbreaks.
You can take aciclovir tablets on an empty stomach, but it should be accompanied by a glass of water. It's advisable to maintain adequate hydration throughout your treatment to mitigate the risk of dehydration, as aciclovir may pose a risk to the kidneys if dehydration occurs.
Frequently asked questions
Like all medication, aciclovir can have unwanted effects although not everyone will experience these.
If you have an allergic reaction to aciclovir tablets, stop taking them and consult a doctor promptly. Allergic reaction symptoms include:
any rash or itchy skin condition
wheezing or difficulty breathing
swelling of eyelids, face, or lips
severe collapse or fainting
Other potential side effects include:
nausea or vomiting
dizziness
visual disturbances
muscle weakness
abdominal pain
changes in heartbeat
feeling anxious or restless
If you encounter any of these symptoms or side effects, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
Always read the patient information leaflet for aciclovir 200mg, 400mg, or 800mg (depending on the strength you’re prescribed) before taking it.
Aciclovir is available in various forms, including oral tablets, topical creams, ointments, and intravenous (IV) formulations.
Tablets are used for both the treatment and prevention of genital herpes. Available in three strengths—200mg, 400mg, and 800mg—the dosage is determined based on the specific purpose, whether it's for treating flare-ups or as a preventive measure. The active ingredient in these tablets is aciclovir.
The herpes virus is highly contagious during an active outbreak and can be transmitted at any time. It is advisable to refrain from sexual activity until all lesions have completely healed. If you choose to engage in sexual activity during this period, using a condom is recommended.
While condoms can help lower the risk of transmission, it's essential to be aware that they only cover the penis, leaving other areas of your partner's skin exposed. Consequently, there remains a potential risk of transmitting the virus even when using a condom.
Once you are a carrier of the virus, there is an ongoing risk of transmission to a partner, irrespective of whether you are displaying symptoms. To minimise the risk of transmission, it is advisable to consistently use a condom even after your lesions have healed.
The effectiveness of aciclovir depends on how quickly you begin treatment after noticing symptoms and the severity of those symptoms.
Commencing aciclovir at the earliest signs is recommended to enhance its efficacy. In certain instances, taking aciclovir before the appearance of initial sores may even prevent their development.
Once lesions have formed, aciclovir can impede the progression of additional sores and support your body in combating the virus. The duration of each herpes outbreak varies, lasting from a few days to several weeks. Seeking medical advice promptly when symptoms emerge is advisable.
