Acyclovir

Medication Description

Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat and manage infections caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), including oral herpes (cold sores caused by HSV-1) and genital herpes (HSV-2). It works by preventing the virus from multiplying, which reduces the duration and severity of outbreaks and helps stop new sores from forming.

How Acyclovir Is Commonly Used: Acyclovir is typically taken three times daily for 5 to 10 days for treatment of outbreaks. For long-term suppression, your provider may prescribe a different dosing schedule.

Timing: For best results, it's recommended that treatment begins within 72 hours of the first signs of an outbreak or within 24 hours of a recurring outbreak.

Administration: Each dose should be taken with a full glass of water. Acyclovir can be taken with or without food. It’s important to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.

Precautions:

Drink plenty of fluids while taking Acyclovir to support kidney function.

Acyclovir does not cure herpes, but it can reduce symptoms and frequency of outbreaks.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them before starting or stopping any medication.