Aciclovir

What is it?

Composition

Aciclovir is available in various forms, such as tablets, creams, ointments and solutions for intravenous administration. Regardless of the form of release, the main active component of the drug is the substance of the same name - Aciclovir. It is this ingredient that is responsible for the antiviral effect of the drug, acting directly on herpes viruses.

In addition to the active substance, the composition of various forms of Aciclovir may also include auxiliary components that ensure the stability of the drug, facilitate its use and promote better absorption. For example, tablets may contain such auxiliary substances as lactose, magnesium stearate, starch and cellulose.

• Aciclovir: the main active ingredient that provides antiviral action.
• Lactose: an auxiliary substance used in tablets to facilitate their shape.
• Magnesium stearate: ensures the glide of tablets and prevents them from sticking together.
• Starch: is used as a filler and to bind the components of the tablet.

How to use?

For effective treatment, it is important to use Aciclovir correctly, according to the doctors recommendations and instructions for use. The method of administration depends on the form of the drug and the specific disease that needs to be treated. For example, for genital herpes or herpes on the lips, Aciclovir is often prescribed in the form of tablets or cream.

Usually, Aciclovir tablets are taken orally with plenty of water. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the severity of the infection and the general condition of the patient. It is important to start taking the drug as early as possible, when the first symptoms of the disease appear, to increase its effectiveness.

1. Tablets: Take orally with water, 2-5 times a day, depending on the prescribed dosage.
2. Cream or ointment: Apply to the affected areas of the skin 3-5 times a day, in a thin layer, avoiding contact with the eyes.
3. Injection solution: Used in a hospital setting, administered intravenously, usually in severe forms of infection.

An important point is the regularity of taking the drug - to maintain a constant level of the active substance in the body and achieve the best therapeutic effect.

How does it work?

Aciclovir works by suppressing the activity of viruses that cause diseases such as herpes, chickenpox and shingles. The main mechanism of action of the drug is to inhibit the viral DNA polymerase, an enzyme that the virus needs to reproduce and spread in the body. Aciclovir, after entering cells infected with the virus, is converted into an active form that specifically binds to the viral DNA polymerase, blocking its work.

This process leads to a stop in the synthesis of viral DNA, which does not allow the virus to reproduce and spread to healthy cells. As a result, the progression of the infection slows down, and the bodys immune system is able to fight the virus more effectively. This leads to a reduction in the duration of the disease, a decrease in the severity of symptoms and a decrease in the risk of complications.

It is important to note that Aciclovir is most effective when used in the early stages of infection, when viruses are actively reproducing. Although the drug does not completely destroy the virus, it significantly alleviates the course of the disease and reduces the likelihood of relapse.

Indications

Aciclovir is prescribed for the treatment and prevention of various viral infections caused by herpes viruses. This drug is widely used both in the treatment of acute conditions and for the prevention of relapses, especially in patients with a weakened immune system. Due to its effectiveness, Aciclovir is one of the most commonly used antiviral agents.

The main indications for the use of Aciclovir include:

• Treatment of primary and recurrent episodes of herpes on the lips (herpes labialis) and genital herpes.
• Therapy of chickenpox and herpes zoster caused by the Varicella-Zoster virus.
• Prevention of herpes recurrences in patients with frequent exacerbations.
• Prevention and treatment of herpes infections in people with immunodeficiency conditions, including patients with HIV/AIDS or after organ transplantation.
• Treatment of herpes infections of the eye, such as herpetic keratitis.

Each of these indications requires an individual approach to the dosage and route of administration of Aciclovir, so before starting treatment, you should consult a doctor.

Contraindications

Like any medication, Aciclovir has its own contraindications that must be taken into account before starting its use. Although this drug is generally well tolerated, there are certain conditions and factors in which its use may be unsafe.

The main contraindications for the use of Aciclovir include:

• Hypersensitivity or allergy to Aciclovir or any other component of the drug.
• Severe renal impairment, since the drug is excreted mainly through the kidneys, and if they are not working properly, Aciclovir may accumulate in the body, which increases the risk of side effects.
• Pregnancy and lactation - use is possible only for strict indications and under the supervision of a doctor, since the safety of the drug in these conditions has not been fully established.
• Neurological disorders, such as seizures, since taking Aciclovir can aggravate these conditions.

Before starting treatment, it is important to discuss with your doctor all possible risks and take into account the individual characteristics of the body in order to minimize the likelihood of adverse reactions.

Side effects

Although Aciclovir is generally well tolerated, like any medicine, it can cause side effects. These are usually mild and go away after treatment, but sometimes more serious reactions may occur that require medical intervention. It is important to monitor your condition closely while taking the drug and to contact your doctor if any unwanted symptoms occur.

The most common side effects include:

• Headaches and dizziness - may occur with tablets or intravenous administration.
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea - gastrointestinal disturbances may be associated with oral administration of Aciclovir.
• Rash or itching - skin reactions may occur when using the cream or ointment.
• Increased fatigue and weakness - may occur during treatment and usually resolve after treatment.
• Kidney problems - an extremely rare complication associated with long-term use of high doses of Aciclovir.

If you experience unusual symptoms or side effects worsen while taking Aciclovir, it is important to stop using the drug immediately and consult a doctor.