Acyclovir Injection

Acyclovir injection is used to treat first-time or repeat outbreaks of herpes simplex (a herpes virus infection of the skin and mucus membranes) and to treat herpes zoster (shingles; a rash that can occur in people who have had chickenpox in the past) in people with weak immune systems. It is also used to treat first-time genital herpes outbreaks (a herpes virus infection that causes sores to form around the genitals and rectum from time to time) in people with normal immune systems. Acyclovir injection is used to treat herpes simplex encephalitis (brain infection with swelling caused by the herpes virus) and herpes infections in newborn infants. Acyclovir injection is in a class of antiviral medications called synthetic nucleoside analogues. It works by stopping the spread of the herpes virus in the body. Acyclovir injection will not cure genital herpes and may not stop the spread of genital herpes to other people.

🔔 How should this medicine be used?

Acyclovir injection comes as a solution to be injected intravenously (into a vein). It is usually given over 1 hour every 8 hours. The length of treatment depends on your general health, the type of infection you have, your age, and how well you respond to the medication. Your doctor will tell you how long to use acyclovir injection.

You may receive acyclovir injection in a hospital or you may administer the medication at home. If you will be receiving acyclovir injection at home, your healthcare provider will show you how to use the medication. Be sure that you understand these directions, and ask your healthcare provider if you have any questions.

🔔 Other uses for this medicine

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

🔔 What special precautions should I follow?

Before using acyclovir injection,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acyclovir, valacyclovir (Valtrex), any other medications, or any of the ingredients in acyclovir injection. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any of the following: probenecid (Benemid, in Colbenemid). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had problems with your immune system, human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV), or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS); or kidney or liver disease. Also tell your doctor if there is a possibility you may be dehydrated from a recent illness or activity.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while receiving acyclovir injection, call your doctor.

🔔 What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.