1. Introduction
Acivir is a brand name for acyclovir, an antiviral medication primarily used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including:
-
Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 & HSV-2) – Genital herpes, cold sores
-
Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) – Chickenpox, shingles
It is a nucleoside analog that interferes with viral DNA replication.
2. Description
-
Generic Name:Â Acyclovir
-
Brand Names:Â Acivir (India), Zovirax (global brand)
-
Dosage Forms:
-
Tablets (200 mg, 400 mg, 800 mg)
-
Cream (5% topical)
-
Intravenous (IV) injection (for severe infections)
-
-
Manufacturer:Â Cipla (Acivir brand)
3. Uses
✔ Genital herpes (treatment & suppression)
✔ Cold sores (oral herpes)
✔ Shingles (herpes zoster)
✔ Chickenpox (varicella)
✔ Herpetic eye infections (ophthalmic ointment)
✔ Herpes encephalitis (IV form for severe cases)
4. Mechanism of Action
-
Acyclovir is converted into its active form (acyclovir triphosphate) inside infected cells.
-
It inhibits viral DNA polymerase, preventing the herpes virus from replicating.
-
Highly selective—minimal effect on healthy human cells.
5. Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
-
Nausea, diarrhea
-
Headache, dizziness
-
Mild skin rash/itching (topical form)
Serious Side Effects (Rare):
-
Kidney dysfunction (especially with IV use; stay hydrated)
-
Neurological effects (confusion, tremors, seizures – rare)
-
Bone marrow suppression (low platelets/white blood cells)
6. Storage
-
Tablets/Cream: Store at room temperature (15–30°C).
-
IV Form:Â Requires refrigeration (check manufacturer instructions).
-
Keep away from moisture and direct sunlight.
7. Precautions & Warnings
âš Â Kidney impairment:Â Dose adjustment needed (higher risk of toxicity).
âš Â Hydration:Â Drink plenty of water (especially with IV acyclovir).
âš Â Pregnancy & breastfeeding:Â Generally safe but consult a doctor.
âš Â Topical use:Â Avoid eyes/mucous membranes; not for genital herpes.
Drug Interactions:
-
Probenecid → Increases acyclovir levels (risk of toxicity)
-
Nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., NSAIDs, vancomycin) → Higher kidney risk
8. Conclusion
Acivir (acyclovir) is a first-line antiviral for herpes infections, available in oral, topical, and IV forms. While generally safe, kidney function must be monitored, especially with high doses.
Would you like:
-
Dosage guidelines?
-
Comparison with valacyclovir/famciclovir?
-
Management of herpes outbreaks?
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.