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What is the most important information I should know about acyclovir?

Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated.

Treatment with acyclovir should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).

Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with acyclovir. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people. Avoid touching an infected area and then touching your eyes. Wash your hands frequently to prevent passing the infection to others.

What is acyclovir?

Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Acyclovir will not cure herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection.

Acyclovir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses. Illnesses caused by herpes viruses include genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chicken pox.

Acyclovir may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking acyclovir?

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to acyclovir or valacyclovir (Valtrex). Before taking acyclovir, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have kidney disease. You may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment. FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Herpes virus can be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. If you have genital herpes, it is very important to prevent herpes lesions during your pregnancy so that you do not have a genital lesion when your baby is born. Acyclovir passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.