Aciclovir

Aciclovir is a medication used to treat a variety of viral infections, usually genital herpes, cold sores, shingles and chickenpox.

Aciclovir and Genital Herpes

As genital herpes is an incurable condition, this medication cannot totally rid the body of the virus, but it is useful in lessening the often uncomfortable symptoms experienced when someone is experiencing an outbreak of herpes, namely the pus-filled blisters round the genital area.

Aciclovir is usually used as an episodic treatment, meaning it is used to reduce the severity of outbreaks and shorten their duration. It also shortens the period during which a patient may pass on the virus to a sexual partner.

Can I buy Aciclovir?

If you have been diagnosed with Herpes then we can prescribe Aciclovir for you to take when you experience an outbreak of symptoms. Aciclovir is a prescription only medication so please complete a consultation form.

How is Aciclovir taken?

Aciclovir should be taken 5 times each day. Herpes sufferers will often ask their doctor to give them a prescription in advance, so that as soon as they notice an outbreak they can start the course of treatment as soon as possible.

Sometimes Aciclovir is prescribed as a suppressive treatment, meaning that someone who frequently experiences outbreaks or finds them particularly severe may be recommended by their doctor to take Aciclovir every day for months or even years. In that case, the medication is taken between 1 and 4 times a day.

It is important that you keep well hydrated while taking Aciclovir. It can also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight so you should wear sun screen.

Are there side effects of Aciclovir?

Most people don't experience side effects while taking Aciclovir. The most common side effects are mild nausea, vomiting, itching and rashes. More rarely, some people experience shortness of breath while taking Aciclovir. A full list of side effects is given in our pre-purchase guidance that is available if we decide to prescribe this treatment for you.

How does Aciclovir work?

Aciclovir stops the herpes virus from reproducing and attacking even more cells in the body. It blocks the action of a viral enzyme, DNA polymerase, which the herpes virus needs to replicate and survive. This means the virus is brought under control and the body can combat an outbreak.

Who can use Aciclovir?

Most people can use Aciclovir, however it is not suitable for patients with impaired kidney function. It should also not be prescribed if someone has an allergy to any of the ingredients.

If you have been diagnosed with Herpes then we may be prepared to prescribe Aciclovir for you. Please complete a free consultation form that can be examined by one of our doctors. Aciclovir is available for next day delivery if we receive your order before 4.00 pm Monday to Friday.