Aciclovir

Can I buy Aciclovir online?

Yes, you can safely purchase Aciclovir online from PharmXtra. You will need to complete an online consultation that is reviewed by a doctor before your order can be processed. This consultation ensures that Aciclovir is the correct medication for your condition.

Do I need a prescription for Aciclovir?

Yes, a valid prescription is required to purchase Aciclovir. Please note that all requests for prescription medications are subject to an online clinical consultation, and the prescribing decision will be made by a registered doctor.

What is Aciclovir?

• Aciclovir is an antiviral medication.
• It is commonly taken in tablet form to treat conditions such as genital herpes, shingles, or severe chickenpox.
• Aciclovir is also available as a cream to treat cold sores directly.
• For individuals with weakened immune systems, aciclovir may be taken daily to prevent infections caused by herpes.
• Be sure to read the patient leaflet for a complete list of potential side effects and precautions.

How does Aciclovir work?

The herpes virus can cause blisters on the skin, lips, or genital area, which can be very painful. Aciclovir works by preventing the herpes virus from multiplying in the body, which helps stop the infection from worsening, allowing the pain to subside and the blisters to heal. However, the herpes virus can remain in the body, meaning symptoms may return in the future, even after the infection has cleared.

This is why some people experience recurring cold sores, despite treatment each time. It is also one of the reasons why it is important to avoid close contact with someone who has a cold sore or genital herpes, as the virus can be transmitted.

How is Aciclovir Taken?

Aciclovir is available in tablet or liquid form for those with difficulty swallowing tablets. Dispersible tablets are also available to make the medication easier to take. Aciclovir is typically taken by mouth to treat shingles, chickenpox, and genital herpes.

Tablets should be taken with water and can be taken with or without food.

Aciclovir cream is available for the treatment of cold sores on the lips.

What is the recommended dosage?

Aciclovir tablets come in strengths of 200mg, 400mg, and 800mg.
Your dose will depend on the condition being treated.

For genital herpes, the typical dose is 400mg, taken three times a day for 5 days or longer. A topical aciclovir cream may also be applied directly to the blisters.
For shingles or chickenpox in adults, the recommended dose is 800mg, taken five times a day for 7 days.
Your prescriber will advise on the appropriate dose based on your symptoms and medical history.

What side effects can it have?

As with all medications, some people may experience mild side effects. In most cases, side effects are temporary and subside after a few days. However, if you find them bothersome, continue taking the medication and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Common side effects include:

• Headaches
• Nausea or vomiting (feeling sick or being sick)
• Dizziness
• Diarrhoea
• Sensitivity of your skin to the sunlight.

When using aciclovir cream, you may experience a burning or stinging sensation, as well as dry or itchy skin at the application site. These effects should resolve once the treatment course is completed.

If you experience a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the lips or tongue, seek emergency medical help immediately by calling 999.

A doctor's overview of the side effects of this medication and how to manage them:

Dr. Irfan Siddique provides a simple explanation of the common side effects of the medication and how you can manage them: Aciclovir is an antiviral medication, used for specific viral illnesses like herpes simplex and herpes zoster skin infections. Common side effects include diarrhea, dizziness, increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight/bright light, feeling sick, and headache. Importantly, it should be used with extra caution in people who are allergic to aciclovir or other antiviral medications, elderly, have kidney disease, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive.

What warnings does it come with?

Aciclovir is suitable for most people, but at PharmXtra, we will ask you to complete an online consultation. This is reviewed by an independent regulated prescriber who ensures it is appropriate for you.

Your prescriber will need to know if you:

• Are aged 65 or older
• Have kidney problems
• Are pregnant, trying to conceive a baby, or breastfeeding
• Have ever had an allergic reaction to any medication.

This is because aciclovir may not be suitable for some people who fall into the above categories.