ACYCLOVIR

Therapeutic Category Antiviral agent Pharmacologic class: Synthetic purine nucleoside Use\ Indications First and recurrent episodes of mucocutaneous herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) infections For genital herpes Varicella zoster infections Herpes simplex encephalitis Pharmacological Effects Interferes with DNA synthesis and inhibits viral replication Adverse Reaction CNS: headache, malaise, encephalopathic changes (including lethargy, obtundation, tremor, confusion, hallucinations, agitation, seizures, coma). GI: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. GU: acute renal failure, hematuria. Hematologic: leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytosis. Skin: inflammation or phlebitis at injection site, rash, urticaria. Precautions/Warnings/Contraindication Contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to drug. Use cautiously in patients with neurologic problems, renal disease, or dehydration, and in those receiving other nephrotoxic drugs. Adequate studies havent been done in pregnant women; use only if potential benefits outweigh risks to fetus. Pregnancy category: B Breast-feeding: No adverse effects reported Interactions: Interferon: May have synergistic effect. Monitor patient closely. Probenecid: May increase acyclovir level. Monitor patient for possible toxicity. Zidovudine: May cause drowsiness or lethargy. Use together cautiously. Dosing HSV encephalitis: 1500 mg/m2/day divided every 8 hours or 10 mg/kg/dose for 10 days For VZV (chicken pox): I.V.: Children and Adults: 1500 mg/m2/day divided every 8 hours or 10 mg/kg/dose every 8 hours for 7 days Brand Available: Acyclovir 500mg powder for inj Acylex 5% ointment Zovirex tablet