Aciclovir 400mg is a prescription-strength, broad-spectrum antiviral medication manufactured by Ranbaxy. Each film-coated tablet contains 400mg of Aciclovir (Acyclovir), a synthetic purine nucleoside analogue.
It is prescribed for the treatment and suppression of viral infections caused by herpesviruses, including:
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infections: Treatment and management of initial and recurrent genital herpes, as well as oral labial herpes (cold sores).
Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) Infections: Treatment of shingles (herpes zoster) and chickenpox in immunocompetent or immunocompromised patients.
Suppression Therapy: Long-term daily suppression of severe recurrent genital herpes outbreaks.
Aciclovir is a targeted antiviral agent that halts viral replication:
Selective Activation: Once inside cells infected by the virus, aciclovir is phosphorylated by viral thymidine kinase into its active triphosphate form.
DNA Chain Termination: The active form inhibits viral DNA polymerase and incorporates itself into viral DNA strands, abruptly halting DNA synthesis and preventing the virus from multiplying.
Low Toxicity to Host: Because it requires viral enzymes for activation, it targets infected cells while sparing normal, healthy host cells.
Renal Risk: Intravenous and high-dose oral aciclovir can occasionally cause renal impairment if aciclovir crystals precipitate in the kidneys. Drink plenty of fluids (water) throughout the day while taking this medication to maintain adequate hydration. Dosage adjustments are required for patients with pre-existing kidney disease.
Timing Matters: Antiviral therapy is most effective when started at the very first sign of an outbreak (such as tingling, itching, or burning) before blisters appear. Always complete your prescribed course.
Standard Adult Dosing (Varies by Condition):
Shingles (Herpes Zoster): Typically 800mg 5 times daily (every 4 hours while awake) for 7 days, or as prescribed.
Genital Herpes (Treatment): Typically 200mg to 400mg 3 to 5 times daily for 5 to 10 days.
Genital Herpes (Suppression): 400mg twice daily (or as directed by your physician).
How to Take:
Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water.
Can be taken with or without food.
Aciclovir is generally well-tolerated. Common side effects may include:
Mild nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Headache or feeling fatigued / dizzy.
Skin rash or mild itching.
Store at room temperature below 25°C or 30°C in a dry place away from moisture and direct light.
Keep blisters sealed in the original carton.
Keep strictly out of reach of children.
No. Aciclovir cannot eliminate the herpes virus from nerve cells (where it remains dormant), but it successfully manages, shortens, and suppresses active outbreaks and symptoms.
Adequate hydration ensures the medication is efficiently filtered through the kidneys without crystallizing, protecting your renal function during treatment.
You can order verified, original prescription antiviral medications like Aciclovir 400mg Tablets (Ranbaxy) directly online from Sanlive Pharmacy & Stores with a valid prescription.
We offer fast doorstep delivery across Nigeria, as well as international shipping to the UK, US, Europe, Middle East, and other parts of the world.
Notice: This guide is for simple educational information only. Aciclovir is a prescription antiviral medication and must be taken strictly under the guidance of a licensed healthcare provider.
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