Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

ACYCLOVIR - INJECTION

(ay-SYE-klo-veer)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zovirax

Uses

This medication is used to treat herpes infections of the skin, mouth, brain, mucous membranes, genital herpes, herpes zoster (shingles), and chickenpox in some individuals. This medication does not cure herpes, but relieves the pain and may make the infection clear faster.

How To Use

Begin using as soon as symptoms occur. Must be given by intravenous injection only. Infuse at a constant rate over at least one hour. This must not be injected rapidly or all at once. Use this medication as directed. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Try to use the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. This will ensure a constant blood level of the medication and is most effective.

Side Effects

This medication may cause stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea, lightheadedness, headache, dizziness, itching or rash. These effects should disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become worse, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you notice: pain or swelling at the injection site, unusual tiredness, tremors, confusion, change in amount of urine, increased thirst, vomiting. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: stomach pain, yellowing eyes and skin, dark urine, fever, fatigue. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease, any allergies. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication should be used cautiously during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use (both prescription and nonprescription). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include sluggishness, change in amount of urine, loss of consciousness, or seizures.

Notes

It is very important to drink plenty of water when receiving acyclovir by injection. Avoid sexual activity while signs and symptoms of genital herpes are present to prevent infecting your partner. Inform your doctor if this medication does not appear to improve the frequency or severity of recurrent infections.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

This medication must be stored properly. Review storage instruction with your doctor or pharmacist. Intravenous bags are to be stored in the refrigerator. Let a refrigerated bag sit at room temperature at least one hour before using. Check expiration date. Store vial at room temperature away from sunlight.