Acyclovir is a tried-and-true antiviral used mainly for herpes viruses — oral cold sores, genital herpes, shingles, and sometimes chickenpox. It slows the virus so your immune system can catch up, which usually means fewer sores and shorter outbreaks. If you've been prescribed acyclovir, this quick guide will help you understand how it works, typical dosing patterns, common side effects, and smart steps for buying it online.
Doctors give acyclovir for several reasons. For a first genital herpes outbreak, they often prescribe an oral course to shorten symptoms. For shingles (herpes zoster) the goal is to reduce pain and speed healing. Some people use it long-term as suppressive therapy to cut down on outbreak frequency. Always follow your prescriber's plan — timing matters for the best effect.
Typical adult dosing varies by condition. For short outbreaks, you might see 200 mg five times daily or 400 mg three times daily for several days. Shingles often uses higher-frequency dosing, like 800 mg multiple times a day for a week. Doctors adjust doses for kidney function, so if you have reduced kidney health your dose will change. Don’t change doses on your own.
Most people tolerate acyclovir well. Common side effects are nausea, headache, dizziness, and mild stomach upset. Less common but important issues include confusion, tremor, or kidney problems — especially if you’re dehydrated or taking other kidney-affecting drugs. To lower risk, drink enough water while on the medication and tell your doctor about all other medicines you take.
Interactions to watch for: drugs that affect kidney function and some antivirals or immunosuppressants can change acyclovir levels. Probenecid can raise acyclovir concentrations. If you’re on multiple meds, ask your pharmacist to check for interactions. Also, report any new rash, severe fatigue, or changes in urination right away.
Thinking about buying acyclovir online? Stick to pharmacies that require a prescription, show a physical address and pharmacist contact, and have clear privacy policies. Beware of sites that sell prescription meds without a prescription or offer suspiciously low prices. If cost is an issue, ask your prescriber about generic acyclovir or patient assistance programs — generics are effective and usually cheaper.
Storage is simple: keep tablets in a cool, dry place away from children. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s near the next dose — then skip the missed one; don’t double up. When in doubt, call your healthcare provider. Acyclovir is effective when used the right way, and a quick chat with your doctor or pharmacist clears up most questions fast.
This article explores five alternatives to Valtrex (valacyclovir) for treating herpes-related conditions. It covers the uses, pros, and cons of each medication including popular choices like Acyclovir, Famciclovir, and more. Ideal for individuals seeking effective antiviral options beyond Valtrex. The article aims to provide practical insights into different antiviral treatments.