Acivir Pills contain the active ingredient acyclovir, a nucleoside analogue DNA polymerase inhibitor specifically designed to combat herpes virus infections. This oral antiviral medication is a first-line treatment prescribed by healthcare professionals to manage outbreaks, reduce viral shedding, and support patient quality of life. It is indicated for the treatment of initial and recurrent episodes of genital herpes, herpes zoster (shingles), and chickenpox in immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients. With a well-established safety profile and targeted mechanism of action, Acivir Pills represent a cornerstone in antiviral therapy, offering both therapeutic and suppressive benefits.

Features

• Active ingredient: Acyclovir 200mg, 400mg, or 800mg film-coated tablets
• Mechanism: Selective inhibition of viral DNA polymerase
• Bioavailability: Approximately 15–30%, with dose-proportional pharmacokinetics
• Half-life: 2.5–3.3 hours in adults with normal renal function
• Excretion: Primarily renal, via glomerular filtration and tubular secretion
• Packaging: Blister packs of 10, 30, or 60 tablets

Benefits

• Reduces duration and severity of herpes outbreak symptoms
• Decreases frequency of recurrent episodes with suppressive therapy
• Lowers risk of viral transmission to partners when used appropriately
• Minimizes complications such as neurologic involvement in zoster
• Supports faster healing and reduced pain in acute infections
• Helps prevent recurrence in immunocompromised individuals

Common use

Acivir Pills are commonly prescribed for the management of infections caused by herpes viruses, including herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV-1, HSV-2) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). Typical indications include treatment of first clinical episodes and recurrent episodes of genital herpes, management of herpes labialis in immunocompromised patients, treatment of acute herpes zoster, and treatment of varicella (chickenpox) in immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients. They are also used for chronic suppressive therapy in patients with frequent recurrences (≥6 episodes per year) and for prophylaxis in immunocompromised patients.

Dosage and direction

Dosage varies based on indication, renal function, and immune status. For genital herpes: initial episode—200mg every 4 hours while awake (5x daily) for 10 days; recurrent episodes—same regimen for 5 days. Chronic suppressive therapy: 400mg twice daily or 200mg 3–5 times daily. Herpes zoster: 800mg every 4 hours while awake (5x daily) for 7–10 days. Chickenpox (immunocompetent): 20mg/kg (max 800mg) four times daily for 5 days. Dosage adjustment required for renal impairment. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water, with or without food. For optimal absorption, maintain adequate hydration.

Precautions

Use with caution in elderly patients and those with renal impairment or underlying neurological conditions. Monitor renal function during treatment, especially with high-dose or intravenous therapy. Maintain adequate hydration to prevent crystalluria. Use during pregnancy only if potential benefit justifies potential risk (Category B). Acyclovir is excreted in breast milk; caution advised during lactation. Not recommended for children under 2 years except for specific indications under specialist supervision. Avoid in patients with hypersensitivity to acyclovir or valacyclovir.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any component of the formulation. Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <10 mL/min) without appropriate dose adjustment. Concurrent use with other nephrotoxic drugs in patients with compromised renal function. Not indicated for meningitis or encephalitis without specialist supervision.

Possible side effect

Common: nausea (2–5%), vomiting (1–3%), diarrhea (2–3%), headache (1–2%). Less common: dizziness, fatigue, skin rash, elevated liver enzymes. Rare: renal impairment (especially with dehydration or pre-existing renal disease), neurotoxicity (agitation, confusion, hallucinations—more common in elderly or renally impaired), thrombocytopenic purpura, hemolytic uremic syndrome. Very rare: anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Most side effects are mild and transient.

Drug interaction

Probenecid significantly increases acyclovir plasma concentrations and half-life by reducing renal clearance. Concurrent use with other nephrotoxic agents (aminoglycosides, cyclosporine, NSAIDs) may increase risk of renal toxicity. Potential additive effects with other neurotoxic drugs. No clinically significant interactions with oral contraceptives or warfarin reported.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintain regular dosing intervals for optimal antiviral efficacy, particularly during acute treatment phases.

Overdose

Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, headache, renal impairment, seizures, or neurological symptoms. Management includes gastric lavage if recent ingestion, supportive care, and adequate hydration to ensure renal excretion. Hemodialysis significantly enhances acyclovir removal (approximately 60% reduction in plasma levels per 6-hour session). Monitor renal function and neurological status closely.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature (15–30°C) in original packaging. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use after expiration date. Do not transfer tablets to alternative containers as exposure to humidity may reduce stability.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Acivir Pills are prescription medications and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Dosage and treatment duration must be individualized based on clinical presentation, renal function, and immune status. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and appropriate management.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate acyclovir’s efficacy in reducing healing time, viral shedding, and symptom duration in herpes infections. Meta-analyses show 70–80% reduction in recurrence frequency with suppressive therapy. Patient reports frequently note improved quality of life and reduced outbreak severity. Some users report gastrointestinal discomfort, though most tolerate therapy well. Long-term safety data support use for chronic suppression up to 10 years. Overall, Acivir Pills remain a well-established, effective option in antiviral management.