Brand Names

How to Use

Acyclovir may come with patient information about herpes simplex infections. Read this information carefully. If you have any questions, check with your health care professional.

Do not use this drug in the eyes .

Acyclovir is best using as soon as possible after the signs and symptoms of herpes infection - for example, pain, burning, or blisters begin to appear .

Use a finger cot or rubber glove when applying this drug. This will help keep you from spreading the infection to other areas of your body and will prevent the transmission of the infection to other people . Apply enough drug to completely cover all the sores - blisters. A 1.25-centimeter - approximately 1/2-inch strip of ointment applied to each area of the effected skin measuring 5 "times " 5 centimeters - approximately 2 "times " 2 inches is usually enough, unless otherwise directed by your family doctor.

To help clear up your herpes infection, continue using acyclovir for the full time of treat , even if your symptoms begin to clear up after a few days Do not miss any doses . However, do not use this drug more often or for a longer time than your family doctor ordered .

Dosage

• For topical dosage form - cream:
  • For herpes simplex infection:
    • Adults Apply to the effected area - s, four to six times a day, for up to ten days.
    • Children Use and dose must be determined by your family doctor.
• For topical dosage form - ointment:
  • For herpes simplex infection:
    In the USA
    • Adults Apply to the effected area - s, every three hours, for a total of six times a day, for seven days.
    • Children Use and dose must be determined by your family doctor.
    In Canada
    • Adults Apply to the effected area - s, four to six times a day, for up to ten days.
    • Children Use and dose must be determined by your family doctor.

Missed dose If you miss a dose of this drug, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Storage To store this drug:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat and direct light.
• Keep the drug from freezing.
• Do not keep outdated drug or drug no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded drug is out of the reach of children.