IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

ACYCLOVIR - ORAL (ay-SYE-klo-veer)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zovirax

USES: Acyclovir is used to treat herpes infections of the skin, mouth, mucous membranes, genital herpes, herpes zoster (shingles), and chickenpox in some individuals. This medication does not cure herpes, but relieves the pain and may make the infection clear faster.

HOW TO USE: Begin taking this medication as soon as symptoms appear. Carefully follow the directions when consuming this drug. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Try to take the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and evening. This will ensure a constant serum blood level is optimally effective.

SIDE EFFECTS: Acyclovir may cause a number of adverse reactions including upset stomach, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness or weakness. These effects should disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If the symptoms you are experiencing worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: numbness or tingling of the hands or feet, leg pain, sore throat, skin rash, change in the amount of urine. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

IMPORTANT INFO ABOUT ACYCLOVIR: Consume this medication for the full span of time recommended by your physician. 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 under the treatment of 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 and diligently to avoid spreading the infection.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use (both prescription and nonprescription). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose of Acyclovir has occured, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include sluggishness, change in amount of urine, loss of consciousness, or seizures.

NOTES: Abstain from sexual activity while signs and symptoms of genital herpes are present in order to avoid spreading the infection to others. Inform your doctor if this medication does not appear to decrease the frequency or severity of recurring infections.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose of Acyclovir, take the next pill as soon as you remember. do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" or multiply the dose to catch up, even if you are behind.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.