Acyclovir (ay-SYE-kloe-vir)

Treats herpes simplex, including genital herpes, shingles (varicella-zoster), and brain infections (herpes simplex encephalitis). This medicine is an antiviral.

Brand Name(s):

Acyclovir Sodium Novaplus, PremierPro Rx Acyclovir Sodium

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
• A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
• You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• This medicine must be given slowly, so the needle will stay in place for about 1 hour.
• Use a new needle and syringe each time you inject your medicine.
• Missed dose: You must use this medicine on a fixed schedule. Call your doctor or pharmacist if you miss a dose.
• If you store this medicine at home, keep it at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. After the medicine powder in the bottle has been mixed with the liquid, store the mixture in the refrigerator in a closed container. Bring it to room temperature before you use it. The mixture must be used within 12 hours after it is mixed.
• Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container away from children and pets.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Tell your doctor if you are taking probenecid.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney or liver disease, or a history of electrolyte problems, breathing problems, or neurologic disorders such as seizures or head injury.
• Do not become dehydrated, because dehydration can increase your risk for serious side effects. Drink extra liquids while you are using this medicine.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
• Black, bloody, or tarry stools
• Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, pain in your upper stomach, yellow skin or eyes
• Decrease in how much or how often you urinate
• Pain or swelling where the IV needle is placed
• Swelling in your face, fingers, feet, or lower legs
• Unusual bleeding or bruising

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Mild nausea, diarrhea, or stomach upset
• Muscle pain

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088