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Acivir

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Product Details

Description

Acivir is a prescription medicine that is primarily used to treat certain infections due to herpes simplex virus, such as cold sores, shingles & genital herpes. It contains acyclovir as its main ingredient, which functions by prohibiting the replication of the herpes virus. It is available in many forms and strengths to cater to the needs of different people. This antiviral medicine is suitable for adults and children above 2 years of age. The medical dosage is based on the condition being treated and the doctor's recommendations. For safe and efficient use, you should take it exactly as prescribed by your physician or healthcare professional. Consult your physician for personalized advice & guidance in case of overdose, missed dose, and storage. If you want to buy Acivir online from Canada, use your doctor’s prescription.

Acivir is a medication that contains Acyclovir as its main ingredient. Acyclovir is an antiviral medicine primarily used to treat certain infections caused by the herpes simplex virus, such as cold sores, shingles & genital herpes. It functions by inhibiting the replication of the herpes virus, thereby reducing the severity & duration of the infection. Acivir is available in a range of strengths, including 200 mg, 400 mg & 800 mg tablets.

The medicine dosage depends on the specific condition being treated and the doctor's recommendation. Typically, it is taken orally, with or without food. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and complete the entire course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication. Acivir can be taken by adults and children over the age of 2, but the dosage may differ for each age group. It is essential to use Acivir under medical supervision, especially if you have kidney problems or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Similar to other medicines, Acivir may cause certain side effects, which includes nausea, diarrhea, headache, or dizziness. If any severe reactions occur, such as skin rash or unusual tiredness, seek medical attention immediately. In case you have missed a dose of Acivir, take it as soon as you think of it unless it's nearly time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Store Acivir in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance.

Uses and Benefits

It is used to treat and manage:

  • Herpes simplex virus infections
  • Shingles
  • Chickenpox
Dosage

What Are the Forms & Strengths of Acivir?

Do not take a different form of the medicine prescribed by your doctor, as it can cause unwanted symptoms. Acivir is available in the following forms and strengths to cater to the needs of different individuals:

Form: Tablets

Strengths: 200mg, 400mg & 800mg

Form: Cream

Strengths: 5%

Form: Oral suspension

Strengths: 200mg/5ml

Form: Eye Ointment

Strengths: 3% aciclovir

Form: Injection

Strengths: 250mg or 500mg

What Is the Recommended Dosage of Acivir?

The dosage of Acivir may vary depending on multiple factors, such as the age of the patient, the condition, and the severity of the condition. It is also based on the form, duration, and frequency of the medication. The dosage shared here is applicable to everyone. However, if your doctor has recommended that you use Acivir at a different dose, you should use it exactly as they have instructed and avoid making any change to your dosage without consulting them first. Below are the general dosage guidelines :

For Herpes Simplex Virus

Oral

  • Adults: 200 mg five times a day for ten days.
  • Children above 2 years of age: Same as adult dose
  • Children less than 2 years of age: 100mg five times each day

For Varicella

  • Adults and children weighing more than 40kg: 800mg four times a day daily for five days
  • Children weighing less than 40kg: 20mg per kg four times a day for five days.

For Shingles

  • Adults: 800mg five times a day for about 7-10 days.

[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they'll customize your dosage accordingly.]

Usage Guide
  • Before using Acivir for the first time & every time you get a medicine refill, refer to the patient information leaflet, the medication guide given, and the prescription label. If you have any questions or concerns or if you have any difficulty understanding any part of the PIL, you should ask your doctor or healthcare professional.
  • Acivir is for external use only, and you should use it in the dose and duration exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it more or less than prescribed, in large quantities, or more often than recommended, as it can lead to unfavorable side effects.
  • You should properly wash your hands with soap & water before and after applying the Acivir cream unless your hands are in the affected area.
  • You should clean the affected area and let it dry before applying the cream.
  • You should start using Acivir as soon as you notice the first signs and appearance of symptoms, including burning, blisters, and tingling. This should be used within one hour before the cold sore appears.
  • If you are using Acivir to treat chickenpox, it is best recommended to start using Acivir as soon as you can, possibly after the first sign of a rash caused by chickenpox, typically within one day.
  • You should not suck on, chew, swallow, or crush an Acivir buccal tablet. Keep the flat side of the Acivir tablet against your upper gum on the same side of the mouth as a cold sore.
  • Let the tablet dissolve in your mouth throughout the day. You can eat or drink normally while holding the buccal tablet in its place.
  • You should not give a buccal tablet to a young child as choking may occur.
  • You can take Acivir tablets, capsules, or oral suspension with a meal or on an empty stomach with a full glass of water. If the medicine upsets your stomach, taking it with meals may also help.
  • If you are using the oral suspension form of Acivir, you should shake the container well before measuring a dose. You can use the dosage syringe given along with your prescription. You can also use a medicine dosage-measuring divide. Do not use a kitchen spoon, as it cannot provide the correct amount of medicine prescribed by your doctor.
  • The dosage of Acivir is based on the age and condition of the patient and the weight of children and adolescents. You may require dosage alterations if you gain or lose weight.
  • You should use this medicine for the full prescribed duration, even if your symptoms have improved. Skipping or missing doses may increase the risk of your virus becoming resistant to the drug.
  • While receiving treatment with Acivir, you should drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. This helps keep your kidneys working properly.
  • You should keep all lesions caused by the herpes simplex virus as clean and dry as possible. Wearing loose clothing can also help prevent lesions from irritating the skin.

[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They'll adjust it as needed over time.]

How It Works

Acivir is an antiviral medicine that is primarily indicated to treat infections caused by herpes virus type 1 & 2, as well as varicella-zoster virus, which leads to chickenpox and shingles. Acyclovir works by stopping viral DNA replication, preventing it from multiplying and spreading. It does so by targeting and blocking the action of viral DNA polymerase, a specific enzyme that is essential for the replication of the virus.

While Acivir does not completely cure viral infections, it helps reduce the severity & duration of symptoms & decrease the chance of spreading the herpes simplex virus to others. It comes in various forms and strengths, such as tablets, creams, and injections, to cater to the individual needs of the patients based on the type and severity of the infection.

Side Effects

What Are the Side Effects of Acivir?

Common side effects: While Acivir is usually well tolerated, it can cause certain temporary side effects in its users. Not everyone who is on treatment with Acivir will experience these symptoms. Most of these side effects usually resolve on their own without the need for medical intervention. However, seek medical advice if they continue or become worse. Common Acivir side effects include:

  • Upset Stomach: Acyclovir may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, leading to an upset stomach. This happens because the medication can irritate the lining of the stomach. To minimize the risk of this effect, you should take acyclovir with food or a full glass of water. If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare provider.
  • Vomiting: Some individuals experience vomiting while taking acyclovir. This side effect is often associated with the gastrointestinal irritation caused by the medicine. To manage this symptom, you should take this medication with food and stay adequately hydrated throughout the day. If vomiting continues or becomes severe, seek medical advice. ​
  • Diarrhea: This can result from acyclovir affecting the digestive tract's normal flora. Maintaining adequate hydration throughout the day while being treated with Acivir is crucial to prevent dehydration. Do not take anti-diarrheal medications without consulting a healthcare professional. ​
  • Dizziness: Acyclovir may lead to dizziness in some users, possibly due to its effects on the central nervous system. If you feel dizzy, sit or lie down until the sensation passes. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery during these episodes. ​
  • Tiredness: Feelings of fatigue or general malaise have been reported with acyclovir use. This could be a direct effect of the medication or a result of the body's response to infection. Ensuring adequate rest & maintaining a balanced diet may help alleviate this tiredness. ​
  • Agitation: Although rare, some individuals may experience agitation or mood changes while on acyclovir. These neuropsychiatric effects are uncommon but should be monitored. If significant agitation occurs, get in touch with a healthcare provider.
  • Pain, Especially in the Joints: Joint pain is an infrequent side effect of acyclovir. The exact mechanism is not well understood but could be associated with the body's immune response to the medication or infection. You can use over-the-counter pain relievers after consulting with a healthcare provider, but consult your doctor if the pain persists. ​
  • Hair Loss: Hair loss (alopecia) has been reported in some people during acyclovir treatment. This side effect is rare and usually temporary. If you notice significant hair loss, discuss it with your healthcare practitioner to rule out other causes and consider alternative treatments if necessary. ​
  • Changes in Vision: This is an uncommon side effect, but it has been noted in some people who are using Acivir. These may include blurred vision or seeing floaters. If you notice any changes in vision, get immediate medical help to assess the cause and prevent potential complications. ​

Serious side effects: While rare, Acivir can cause serious side effects in some users belonging to certain risk groups. These adverse symptoms require prompt medical attention and can become life-threatening if left untreated. If you experience any of the following side effects, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. You can call 911 or a healthcare professional. Severe side effects of Acivir may include:

  • Severe Allergic Reactions: Some people using Acivir can experience severe allergic reactions. You should discontinue using this medical and seek prompt medical assistance if you experience a racing heartbeat, breathing issues, fever, swollen lymph nodes, facial swelling under the skin, difficulty swallowing, itching, hives, nausea, stomach cramps, joint pain, or lightheadedness.
  • Kidney Damage: It can happen in some people using Acivir. Immediately get in touch with your physician or healthcare provider if you experience any signs & symptoms of kidney damage, including decreased urination, swelling in your legs, feet, or ankles, pain or pressure in your chest, confusion, nausea, or seizures.
  • Aggressive Behavior: In rare instances, Acivir has been associated with neuropsychiatric side effects, including aggressive behavior. This may result from the drug's influence on the central nervous system (CNS), particularly in individuals with renal impairment, which can lead to higher concentrations of the medication in the bloodstream. Geriatric patients are also at an increased risk of having these effects. To manage this side effect, patients should be monitored for any sudden changes in mood or behavior. Adjusting the dosage for individuals with compromised kidney function and ensuring adequate hydration are recommended to prevent such adverse reactions. If aggressive behavior continues, consult a healthcare professional for appropriate intervention.
  • Difficulty Speaking: Acivir has been reported to cause neurological side effects such as dysarthria, characterized by slurred or slow speech. This occurs due to the drug's potential to affect CNS function, particularly in patients with renal dysfunction or those receiving high doses. To mitigate the risk of this side effect, it is important to adjust the dosage appropriately for individuals with kidney issues and to monitor for any neurological symptoms. If difficulty speaking develops, medical attention should be sought promptly to evaluate the need for dosage adjustment or discontinuation of the medication.
  • Numbness/Burning/Tingling in the Arms or Legs: Peripheral neuropathy, presenting as numbness, burning, or tingling sensations in the extremities, has been observed in some patients taking Acivir. This side effect may result from the drug's impact on nerve conduction. Patients experiencing these symptoms should report them to their healthcare provider. Management may involve adjusting the acyclovir dosage or considering alternative antiviral therapies. Regular monitoring and prompt reporting of symptoms can aid in early detection and intervention. ​
  • Hallucinations: This is a rare but serious side effect of acyclovir, likely associated with its effects on the CNS. The risk is higher in individuals with renal impairment, leading to elevated drug levels in the body. Elderly individuals are also more susceptible. Preventative measures include appropriate dose adjustments for those with kidney dysfunction and maintaining proper hydration to facilitate drug clearance. If hallucinations occur, immediate medical consultation is necessary to reassess the treatment regimen and ensure patient safety. ​
  • Difficulty Sleeping: Insomnia or difficulty sleeping has been reported as a side effect of acyclovir. While the exact mechanism behind why this happens is not fully understood, it may be associated with the drug's CNS activity. To manage this, patients are advised to maintain good sleep hygiene practices, like establishing a regular sleep schedule & creating a comfortable sleep environment. If sleep disturbances persist, discussing the issue with a healthcare provider is recommended to explore possible adjustments to the medication or additional interventions. ​
  • Fever, Sore Throat, Chills, Cough, and Other Signs of Infection: Although acyclovir is an antiviral medication, some patients may experience symptoms resembling infections, such as fever, sore throat, chills, and cough. These could be manifestations of the body's immune response or unrelated coincidental infections. It's important to monitor these symptoms closely. If they persist or worsen, consulting a licensed healthcare practitioner is advisable to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment, which may include supportive care or additional medications. ​
  • Unusual Bruising or Bleeding: Acyclovir has been associated with hematologic abnormalities, including thrombocytopenia, a condition characterized by a low platelet count, leading to unusual bruising or bleeding. This occurs due to the drug's potential impact on bone marrow function. Patients should be vigilant for signs such as easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from small cuts, or petechiae (small red spots on the skin). Regular blood count monitoring is recommended during treatment. If significant bruising or bleeding occurs, medical attention is necessary to evaluate the need for dosage adjustment or discontinuation of acyclovir. ​
  • Blood in the Urine: Blood in the urine, also known as hematuria, has been reported in patients taking acyclovir, potentially indicating kidney irritation or damage. This side effect may result from the formation of acyclovir crystals in the renal tubules, leading to kidney injury. To prevent this, patients are advised to maintain adequate hydration to ensure proper urine flow and reduce the risk of crystal formation. If blood in the urine is observed, it's crucial to seek immediate medical evaluation to assess kidney function and consider modifying the treatment plan.

[Note: Remember, this list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]

Warnings
  • ablet in your mouth. You can rinse your mouth gently and drink plenty of water while being treated with Acivir to prevent dry mouth.
  • Herpes infections are contagious, and you can still spread the infection to others, even when you are treated with this medicine. Avoid letting infected areas of the skin come into contact with healthy individuals, touching an infected area and then touching your eyes & washing your hands frequently to prevent infecting others.
  • Using Acivir will not prevent you from passing genital herpes to your sexual partner. Avoid engaging in sexual activities while you have the first symptoms of an outbreak or active lesions. Genital herpes may still be able to spread to other people through "viral shedding" from your skin, even if you have no visible symptoms.
Safety Guide

While determining whether a drug is safe for you to use, you should weigh the risks against the good it will do. Your doctor will help you decide whether you should use Acivir. You should consider the following before starting to use this drug:

  • You should tell your physician or healthcare professional if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to Acivir or to any other medicine. Also, let your healthcare provider know if you have any other allergies, including food, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription medications, refer to the package instructions or label. Acivir may also contain certain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other issues. You should be aware of all the ingredients it contains. If you do not know what ingredients the medicine you are using contains, you should talk to your doctor or healthcare provider.
  • Limited studies have been done using the oral form of Acivir in pediatric patients, and it is found that it has not caused different effects or problems in patients belonging to this age group than it does in adults.
  • Geriatric patients are at a higher chance of having side effects while using this medicine, especially those who are more sensitive to the central nervous system effects associated with the use of this drug. The symptoms may include confusion, agitation, drowsiness, and dizziness.
  • It was found in certain studies that Acivir poses minimal risk to the nursing baby when used during breastfeeding. However, it is recommended that you should consult a healthcare professional before using this drug while breastfeeding.
Contraindications

Acivir is contraindicated for use in patients who have:

  • Hypersensitivity to individuals who have an allergy to acyclovir or valacyclovir
  • Severe renal impairment
  • Dehydration
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding (caution is advised)
Missed Dose
  • To get the most benefit from the medication you are using, it is essential that you maintain consistency in medicine dosage & try to take it around the same time every day to help you remember to take it as per the scheduled time.
  • If you have forgotten to take a dose, you should take it as soon as you think of it unless it is almost time to use your next scheduled dose. In that case, it is best that you omit the missed dose and continue using it as per the scheduled dose.
  • You should not take double or extra doses of the same drug simultaneously to make up for the missed Acivir dose, as it can cause more harm than good.
  • If you often forget to take your medicine according to the dosage schedule, you should set a medicine reminder on your mobile phone or mark your calendar to help you remember to take it on time.
  • If you still cannot determine when to use your missed Acivir dose, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider.

[Note: If you have missed a dose of your medication and are unsure about when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]

Overdose

You should not take Acivir more than the prescribed dose or more often, as it can cause an overdose. If you or someone has taken this medicine more than the prescribed dose and is having symptoms such as seizures, loss of consciousness, agitation, extreme fatigue, swelling under the skin, or reduced urination, immediate medical attention should be sought. You can call 911 or a healthcare provider. You can also go to the nearest medical care centre.

[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help right away, or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]

Storage Guide

Following proper storage guidelines is recommended to ensure the medicine's safe and efficient use. You should keep Acivir in a cool and dry place at room temperature. Other storage instructions include:

  • Store Acivir tightly closed in the original packaging it came in to protect it from exposure to light, moisture & excessive heat.
  • With that said, do not keep it in the bathroom, under the sink., or in other places with high humidity, as moisture content can cause harm to certain medicines.
  • It is important to keep all medicines, including Acivir, out of sight and reach of children and pets to avoid accidental consumption. Many containers are not child-proof, and young children can easily open them.
  • Do not keep medicines that are no longer needed or outdated; discard them safely so that children, animals, and other people cannot consume them.
  • Do not flush it down the toilet, pour it into the wastewater, or throw it into the household garbage bin unless instructed to do so.
  • For more information on how to safely dispose of unwanted medicines, get in touch with your local waste management company, healthcare provider, or pharmacist.

[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]

Interactions

Certain medicines may interact with Acivir and reduce its effectiveness or cause unwanted side effects. Before using Acivir, tell your doctor and healthcare provider about all medicines you use, including all prescription medicines, non-prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, herbs, and vitamin supplements. This information is essential to identify and manage potential drug interactions of Acivir. If your doctor determines there is any significant potential for Acivir interaction, they may change your dosage of one or both medicines or recommend that you use a different medicine altogether. Some of the most prominent interactions of Acivir may include:

  • Amikacin
  • Amphotericin B deoxycholate
  • Amoxicillin
  • Bacitracin
  • Bendamustine
  • Capreomycin
  • Carboplatin
  • Cephaloridine
  • Cidofovir
  • Cisplatin
  • Colistin
  • Contrast media (iodinated)
  • Cyclosporine
  • Elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF
  • Emtricitabine
  • Gentamicin
  • Ioversol
  • Mycophenolate
  • Neomycin PO
  • Oxaliplatin
  • Peramivir
  • Polymyxin B
  • Probenecid
  • Streptozocin
  • Tacrolimus
  • Talimogene laherparepvec
  • Teicoplanin
  • Temocillin
  • Tenofovir DF
  • Tobramycin
  • Ublituximab
  • Xanomeline/trospium

What Are the Other Acivir Interactions?

Certain substances, including herbs, supplements, beverages, and food items, may interact with Acivir. You should avoid using certain medicines at or around the same time as consuming certain kinds of food items since interactions may occur. It can affect how your medicine works. Using alcohol or tobacco alongside certain medicines can also lead to unwanted interactions. Before using Acivir, discuss the use of this product with food, alcohol, or tobacco. There are certain medical conditions that may also affect the use of this medicine. They may mainly include:

  • Dehydration
  • Nervous system issues
  • Renal issues

[Note: This isn't a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Acivir. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]

Alternatives

While Acivir is usually well tolerated, it may not be suitable for everyone to use because of contraindications or allergies. In such cases, people look for alternatives to Acivir. While many effective substitutes to this medicine are available on the market, you should not use them without first talking with your doctor, as they can cause unwanted side effects. If you plan to change your prescription or switch to a different one, you should discuss it with your healthcare professional. Based on your age, condition, and other factors, they will help you decide the most suitable option. Some of the most appropriate Acivir alternatives include:

  • Valtrex (valacyclovir hydrochloride)
  • Zovirax Ointment (acyclovir)
  • Acyclovir topical
  • Denavir
  • Zovirax (acyclovir)
  • Famciclovir

[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]

Cost & Coupons

Acivir is an antiviral medicine that is primarily used to treat certain infections caused by herpes simplex virus. The price to buy Acivir to treat viral infections can vary depending on the health insurance coverage plan, pharmacy, and your prescription type and duration. People may notice high costs, especially when their health insurance does not cover medicines such as Acivir, which deters them from getting the treatment they need. At Polar Bear Meds, we understand the importance of accessible and affordable medicines, which is why we enable our customers to buy Acivir at coupon offers. If you are a first-time user, you can take advantage of our coupon code WELCOMEPB10 to get an additional 10% off at checkout. Choose our services and get authentic medicines delivered to your doorstep at low prices.

FAQ

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Important Notice

The content provided on the Polar Bear Meds website serves to increase knowledge about healthcare products and medical conditions and is strictly for informational purposes. It should not replace professional medical advice. We urge you to consult with a qualified healthcare professional prior to utilizing any prescription or over-the-counter medication. Our platform grants access to an extensive array of products, sourced internationally, including Canada. We collaborates with a licensed pharmacy partner in Canada and trusted dispensing pharmacies globally. All affiliated fulfillment centers are accredited by the regulatory authorities of their respective countries.

Dr. Jackson Miller

Medically Reviewed by "Dr. Jackson Miller (M.D)"

Dr. Jackson Miller is a board-certified medicine physician & hospitalist. He is a healthcare professional with a strong background in patient care. With years of experience and a patient-first approach, he believes the foundation of good health is a patient who feels informed and empowered. He contributes to medical content review, drawing on his background in clinical practice and patient education. He focuses on presenting health information in a clear, accurate, and accessible way to help readers make informed decisions. His work emphasizes clarity, evidence-based guidance, and understandable explanations of medical topics.

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