Acylex 5% Ointment

Generic: Acylex 5%

Introduction

Acyclovir is an antiviral medicine. It treats infections caused by the herpes virus including cold sores, and genital herpes. Acyclovir decreases the severity and length of these outbreaks. It helps the sores heal faster, keeps new sores from forming, and decreases pain/itching. In addition, in people with a weakened immune system, acyclovir can decrease the risk of the virus spreading to other parts of the body and causing serious infections.

How to use

• Take acyclovir by mouth with or without food, usually 2 to 5 times a day as directed by the doctor.
• Drink plenty of fluids while taking acyclovir unless your doctor directs otherwise.
• If using the liquid form of acyclovir, shake the bottle well before each dose.
• Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon.
• Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.
• Acyclovir works best when started at the first sign of an outbreak, as directed by the doctor.
• It may not work as well if the treatment is delayed.
• Quantity is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
• Do not increase your quantity or take this product more often than directed.

Expert Advice

• Take this medicine with or without meals. To prevent GI upset, take this medicine with meals. 
• Even if you feel better complete full course. 
• Avoid sexual intercourse when visible lesions are present. 
• Take ample amount of fluids to maintain hydration.

Primary Uses

• Herpes

Indications

• Acyclovir is indicated for the treatment of genital herpes.
• Acyclovir is indicated for treating long pains after the sores heal.
• Acyclovir is indicated for decreasing the risk of the virus spreading to other parts of the body, causing serious infections.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Rash
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Fever

Serious but rare side effects:

• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Kidney failure
• Hepatitis (liver inflammation)
• Jaundice
• Gastrointestinal upset

Warnings

• No evidence of risk has been found. However, pregnant females should consult their doctor before using this medication.

• The effects on lactating females are undetermined. Consult your doctor before use.

• May cause dizziness. Avoid driving while using this medication.

• No known risks to the liver have been observed.

• This medication may pose risks to kidneys. Avoid use if you have kidney problems and consult your doctor.

• Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while using acyclovir.

Precautions

• Patients allergic to acyclovir or its components should consult their doctor before use.
• Inform your doctor if you are taking any vitamins, nutritional supplements, or herbal products before starting this medication.
• Seek immediate medical advice if swelling occurs.

Contraindications

• Contraindicated in patients allergic to acyclovir.
• Use with caution in patients with cold sores or kidney problems.

FAQs

1. What is acyclovir?
Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used to prevent the reproduction of viruses, treating infections such as genital herpes and shingles.

2. Does stomach pain occur with the use of acyclovir?
Yes, stomach pain and other bowel-related side effects like diarrhea may occur.

3. Can patients with kidney disease take this medication?
Patients with kidney disease should avoid using this medication. Consult your doctor for advice.

4. Is this medicine safe to use during lactation?
This medicine passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before using it during breastfeeding.

5. Can this medication cause hair loss?
Hair loss has been observed as a side effect of this medication. Inform your doctor if you experience this symptom.

6. Can I use this medicine during pregnancy and lactation?
Use this medicine only if absolutely necessary during pregnancy and lactation. Inform your doctor before use.

7. How to administer this medicine?
This medication can be taken orally or administered intravenously under medical supervision. Dosage depends on age, condition, and severity.

8. What are the precautions?

• Patients with kidney disease should exercise caution.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Elderly patients should use this medication with care.

9. How to store this medicine?
Store at room temperature, away from excessive light, moisture, and out of reach of children. Refer to the leaflet provided with the medication for detailed storage instructions.