Legal classification of Medication
POM
Aciclovir tablets can only be obtained in accordance with a prescription given by an appropriate practitioner and therefore the legal status of the medication is prescription only medication (POM).
Formulations
Aciclovir is available as tablets, dispersible tablets and suspension. The tablets are available in the strengths of 200mg, 400mg, and 800mg the suspension is available in strengths of 200mg/5ml and 400mg/5ml.
Class of drug
Aciclovir is an anti-viral drug
Indications
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). The HSV-1 virus causes infections of lips (cold sores), mouth and face. Different formulations can be used to treat these conditions, i.e. cold sore cream containing aciclovir and aciclovir eye ointments to treat herpes in the eye.
Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). The HSV-2 virus usually causes infections in the genitals area, i.e. through sexual transmission.
Varicella-Zoster virus (VZV). Is the cause of chickenpox and also shingles.
How does it work?
Viruses contain genetic material in the form of DNA or RNA. The genetic materials are instructions for the replication of the virus. Viral cells contain enzymes which are required in the process of replicating the genetic material; Aciclovir deactivates these enzymes and prevents them from making further copies of the genetic material and the therefore preventing viral replication.
How is it taken?
The dose of Aciclovir will depend according to the indications and if the patient is immunocompromised. Patients should keep well hydrated if they are taking high doses of the drug.
Pregnancy and Breast feeding
Aciclovir is not known to be harmful in pregnancy; it should only be used when the benefits overweigh the risks. There is a significant amount of aciclovir found in breast milk after oral administration of the drug therefore it is best avoided.
Contra-indications
Aciclovir should not be used in patients who have known sensitivity to the medical ingredient.
Side-effects
Author: Mr Shiraz Mughal, MPharmS
Editor: Dr Shazan Chughtai, MB BS
