ACYCLOVIR - INJECTION

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ACYCLOVIR - INJECTION

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (ay-SYE-kloe-vir)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zovirax

GENERIC NAME(S): acyclovir sodium

Uses

USES: This medication is used in certain people to treat outbreaks of herpes simplex infection of the skin (e.g., genitals), mucous membrane areas (e.g., mouth, nose), or brain. It is also used in certain people to treat shingles infection. The viruses that cause these infections live in the body quietly until an outbreak occurs. Acyclovir does not cure these infections, but can speed healing of the sores, decrease pain/itching/formation of new sores, and lower the risk of other problems from the virus (e.g., infection spreading to other parts of the body/organs, persistent pain after sores heal).


How to use ACYCLOVIR - INJECTION

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by slow injection into a vein as directed by your doctor. It is usually given every 8 hours. It should be injected slowly over 1 hour. Do not inject rapidly. Start this medication as soon as signs or symptoms of a herpes infection occur. Dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment. If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instruction from your health care professional. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely. This medication works best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, use this drug at evenly spaced intervals. Continue to use this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the outbreak. Drink plenty of fluids while receiving this medication unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: pain/swelling at the injection site, shaking, dizziness, drowsiness, unusual tiredness, fast/pounding heartbeat, easy bruising/bleeding, new signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), dark urine, severe stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine, bloody urine), mental/mood changes (e.g., agitation, confusion, hallucinations), loss of consciousness, vision changes, seizures. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before using acyclovir, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to valacyclovir; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease, immune system problems. This medication contains sodium. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are on a salt-restricted diet or if you have a condition that could be worsened by an increase in salt intake (e.g., congestive heart failure). Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Do not have certain immunizations/vaccinations (such as vaccines against the varicella virus) without the consent of your doctor. Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug, especially mental/mood changes (such as agitation, confusion). During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Some products that may interact with this drug include: other drugs that may cause kidney problems (including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs-NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen). Acyclovir is very similar to valacyclovir. Do not use medications containing valacyclovir while using acyclovir.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: change in the amount of urine, seizures, extreme tiredness, loss of consciousness, agitation.

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Faq for ACYCLOVIR - INJECTION

Acyclovir injection is primarily used for the treatment of severe infections caused by the herpes simplex virus, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles.

Acyclovir injection is given through a vein (intravenously) over a period of 1 hour or longer, usually in a hospital or clinic setting.

The common side effects of acyclovir injection may include pain or burning at the injection site, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness.

While acyclovir injection can help treat and shorten the duration of herpes outbreaks, it is not a cure. It helps to reduce symptoms and speed up the healing process.

The effects of acyclovir injection can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the infection. It may take a few days to notice an improvement in symptoms.

Certain medications, such as probenecid, may interact with acyclovir injection. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to avoid any potential interactions.

Acyclovir injection should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

If you miss a dose of acyclovir injection, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible for further instructions. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage schedule to maximize the effectiveness of the medication.

It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol while receiving acyclovir injection, as it may increase the risk of side effects and may interfere with the effectiveness of the medication.

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Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.