STD Treatment
Mfg : Various ManufacturesAcyclovir STD Medication
Key attributes of acyclovir therapy:
Maximum Doses: 4
Per Dose $ 00.00
Total Price
Acyclovir is FDA-approved for treating herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) infections, including initial and recurrent genital herpes outbreaks and cold sores. Its also effective against varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infections like shingles and chickenpox. For genital herpes, acyclovir can reduce healing time by 2-4 days when started at the first symptoms. In shingles treatment, it helps prevent postherpetic neuralgia if administered within 72 hours of rash appearance.
Acyclovir works as a nucleoside analog that selectively inhibits viral DNA replication. After being activated by viral thymidine kinase in infected cells, it competitively inhibits viral DNA polymerase and terminates DNA chain elongation. This targeted action makes it 300 times more likely to affect viral DNA than human DNA, minimizing side effects while effectively suppressing viral activity.
Dosage varies by condition: genital herpes typically requires 200mg 5x daily for 10 days (initial) or 400mg 3x daily (recurrent). Shingles treatment usually involves 800mg every 4 hours (5x daily) for 7-10 days. Chickenpox in adults often uses 800mg 4x daily for 5 days. All regimens should be started as early as possible after symptom onset for maximum effectiveness.
Common side effects include nausea (12%), headache (6%), and dizziness (3%). Adequate hydration is important to prevent crystalluria, especially in IV therapy. Dose adjustments are necessary for renal impairment. While generally safe, acyclovir doesnt eliminate latent virus and may require ongoing suppressive therapy for recurrent infections.
Acyclovir crosses the placenta but is classified as Pregnancy Category B. It appears in breast milk, requiring risk/benefit consideration for nursing mothers. The medication shows particular value for immunocompromised patients in preventing severe HSV/VZV infections. Resistance, while rare in immunocompetent patients, can develop in those with compromised immune systems.
