Aciclovir tablet 200mg

Generic Name: Aciclovir (also spelled Acyclovir)

Strength: 200 mg per tablet

Drug Class: Antiviral agent (nucleoside analogue)

Form: Oral tablet

Appearance:

• Usually white or off-white

• Round or oval-shaped

• Imprinted with markings depending on the manufacturer (e.g., “ACV 200”, “AR 200”, or similar)

Mechanism of Action:

Aciclovir works by inhibiting the replication of herpes viruses. It is converted inside infected cells into aciclovir triphosphate, which inhibits viral DNA polymerase — an enzyme necessary for viral DNA synthesis. This action stops the virus from multiplying and spreading.

Indications (Uses):

Aciclovir 200 mg tablets are commonly prescribed for:

• Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infections:

  • Genital herpes (initial and recurrent episodes)

  • Herpes labialis (cold sores)

  • Herpes simplex encephalitis (brain infection)

• Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) infections:

  • Treatment of shingles (herpes zoster)

  • Chickenpox (varicella)

• Prevention:

  • Used prophylactically to reduce outbreaks in immunocompromised patients or those with frequent recurrences.

Dosage & Administration:

• Adults: Typical doses for herpes simplex infections range from 200 mg five times daily for 5–10 days.

• Children: Dosage is based on body weight and the severity of infection.

• Tablets should be swallowed whole with water, and treatment should start as early as possible after symptom onset.

Pharmacokinetics:

• Absorption: Oral bioavailability is approximately 15–30%.

• Distribution: Widely distributed in body tissues and fluids, including cerebrospinal fluid.

• Metabolism: Minimal hepatic metabolism.

• Elimination: Primarily excreted unchanged via kidneys.

Side Effects:

Common:

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Fatigue

Less Common/Serious:

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)

• Kidney problems (especially if dehydrated or with pre-existing renal disease)

• Neurological effects (confusion, hallucinations, seizures in rare cases)

Precautions & Contraindications:

• Use cautiously in patients with renal impairment; dose adjustments may be necessary.

• Avoid in patients with known hypersensitivity to aciclovir or related compounds (valaciclovir).

• Ensure adequate hydration to prevent kidney toxicity.

• Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding only if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor.

Storage:

• Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

• Keep out of reach of children.