Aciclovir 200mg tablets (25)

What is Aciclovir?

Aciclovir is an antiviral medicine used to treat infections caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), including cold sores on and around the lips (herpes labialis).

Cold sores are small, fluid-filled blisters that can be painful, itchy and sometimes embarrassing. They often come back in the same place when the virus is reactivated.

Aciclovir tablets are a prescription-only medicine in the UK and are supplied following a clinical assessment by a prescriber.

How does Aciclovir work?

Aciclovir works by stopping the herpes virus from multiplying in your body. Once inside virus-infected cells, it interferes with the way the virus copies its genetic material (DNA). This helps to:

• Shorten the length of an outbreak
• Reduce pain, soreness and discomfort
• Help cold sores heal and crust over more quickly

Aciclovir does not completely remove the virus from your body. The virus stays dormant in nerve cells and may reactivate in the future, but treating outbreaks promptly can make them shorter and milder.

What is Aciclovir used for on this page?

This service uses aciclovir tablets specifically for:

• Cold sores (herpes labialis) – outbreaks on or around the lips caused by herpes simplex virus (usually HSV-1).

Aciclovir can also be used for other herpes virus infections (such as genital herpes, chickenpox and shingles), but these are outside the scope of this particular cold sore service.

Who is this treatment suitable for?

Aciclovir tablets may be suitable for adults who:

• Have recurrent or troublesome cold sores
• Prefer a treatment that works from inside the body rather than cream alone
• Are not pregnant or breastfeeding
• Do not have significant kidney problems or other conditions that would make aciclovir unsuitable

Your prescriber will review your medical history, current medicines and symptoms before deciding if this treatment is appropriate for you.

Who should not take Aciclovir?

Aciclovir tablets may not be suitable if you:

• Are allergic to aciclovir or any ingredient in the tablets
• Have kidney disease or significantly reduced kidney function
• Are older, frail, or at risk of dehydration
• Are pregnant, trying for a baby or breastfeeding, unless a doctor or pharmacist has agreed that the benefits outweigh any risks
• You should also tell the prescriber if you are taking:
• Other antivirals (e.g. valaciclovir)
• Medicines that affect the kidneys (for example some water tablets/diuretics or immunosuppressants)

Your clinician will assess this on an individual basis.

Key points:

• – Start treatment as early as possible, ideally at the first tingling, burning or tight feeling before a blister appears.
• – Swallow the tablets whole with water, with or without food.
• – Drink plenty of fluids while taking aciclovir, especially if you are older or have any kidney problems.

Never change your dose or stop early without speaking to a healthcare professional.