GP and surgeon, Dr Shane Charles (MBBS, MRCS, PgDip SEM) provides a simple explanation of the medication below:

'Aciclovir is a medication used to treat herpes simplex virus (HSV). '.

If you think Aciclovir is a treatment that can help you, start an online consultation now for a registered prescriber to review. If treatment is deemed suitable, they can prescribe it, and we can deliver it to you from the comfort of your own home with a range of convenient delivery and payment options for you to choose from. If you have any questions about a medication, you should always consult your doctor with any questions prior to starting treatment, to ensure that it is safe and suitable for you.

What is Aciclovir?

Aciclovir is used in decreasing the pain and speeding up the healing of blisters or sores in people with varicella or chickenpox, herpes zoster or shingles, and first-time or repeat outbreaks of genital herpes (NHS, 2022). It is also used to prevent an outbreak of genital herpes in people who have been infected with the virus.

Aciclovir is a class of antiviral medications called synthetic nucleoside analogues.

How does Aciclovir work?

Aciclovir, an antiviral medication, works by stopping the spread of the herpes virus in the body. It does not cure genital herpes or stop its spread to other people (NHS, 2022).

How quickly does aciclovir start to work?

Aciclovir typically starts working within a few days, with symptoms often improving in 24 to 48 hours. If you're using it to prevent recurrent genital herpes, it will remain effective as long as you continue taking it.

What are the benefits of taking Aciclovir?

Aciclovir does not cure the herpes virus. It is beneficial in decreasing the pain and speeding up the blisters or sores in people with chickenpox, shingles, or outbreaks of genital herpes.

Aciclovir Reviews

There are a large selection of Aciclovir reviews describing what people think about their experiences with the medication available right here at UK Meds and at Drugs.com and Web MD.

It is important to note that people may have different experiences when they use aciclovir. If someone states that their medication did not work as they had hoped, it does not mean that it will not work for you. If you believe that aciclovir is the right medication for you then the best thing to do is to consult your doctor or healthcare professional, and judge the medication based on your own experiences if they recommend it as a treatment.

For more information on the prescription medication patients should refer to the Aciclovir patient information leaflet.

How do I use Aciclovir?

Aciclovir Tablets

Aciclovir comes in the forms of a tablet, a capsule, and a suspension to take by mouth.

Aciclovir may be taken with or without food twice or up to five times a day for 5 to 10 days, beginning as soon as possible after your symptoms begin.

When used to prevent genital herpes outbreaks, it is usually taken two to five times a day for up to 12 months.

Take Aciclovir at about the same time each day. Follow the directions of your doctor or what is provided for in the prescription label. Always ask your doctor to explain anything about the use of medication that you do not understand.

Take this medicine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often or for a longer time than what your doctor prescribed.

If you are using the suspension, shake the bottle well to mix the medication evenly.

Your symptoms will be expected to improve during your therapy with Aciclovir. Call your doctor if your symptoms do now show any signs of improvement or if they get worse.

Finish the prescribed treatment course of this medicine even if you start to feel better. Stopping the taking of Aciclovir too soon or skip doses may result in the incomplete treatment of your infection or it may become difficult to treat.

When should I start taking aciclovir?

You should begin taking aciclovir as soon as you notice the first signs of an outbreak. The earlier you start, the quicker your symptoms will improve. If this is your first outbreak or you're unsure about your symptoms, it's best to speak to a doctor or visit a sexual health clinic straight away.

UK Meds have put together a guide for spotting the signs and symptoms of genital herpes and how you can manage the condition.

What time should I take aciclovir tablets each day?

The best time to take aciclovir tablets is to space your doses evenly throughout the day. You don't need to take it with meals, but if it helps you remember, you can take it with breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Always speak to your doctor for advice on any questions you have around using the medication.

Can I stop taking aciclovir at any time?

No. If you want to stop taking aciclovir, don’t do so without your doctor's advice. It’s important to finish the full course, even if your symptoms improve or the sores disappear.

What is the proper dosage for Aciclovir?

Always consult with your doctor to ensure that you take the most appropriate dosage of aciclovir for your specific needs. Below we've outlined the typical dosage for the medication.

• Typical Dose: 200mg to 800mg per dose, depending on your condition. Children usually take lower doses.
• Frequency: Usually 2 to 5 times a day. For example:
  • 4 times a day: Morning, midday, late afternoon, and bedtime.
  • 5 times a day: 7am, 11am, 3pm, 7pm, and 11pm.

• For Viral Infections: Typically 5 to 10 days.
• For Prevention: May be needed long-term.

• Tablets: Swallow with water. If you have trouble swallowing, dissolve in water and drink all the liquid.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Aciclovir?

• Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, just skip the missed dose and continue with your next dose at the regular time.
• Do Not: Take two doses at once or try to make up for a missed dose with an extra one.
• Tips for Remembering: Set an alarm or ask your doctor for advice on how to remember your doses.

Is it possible to overdose on aciclovir?

Accidentally taking too many aciclovir tablets in a single instance is generally not harmful unless it continues over several days. However, if you're worried about taking too much, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor for guidance.

Can elderly people take aciclovir?

Adults up to the age of 65 can take aciclovir. If you're over 65, it's important to consult your doctor before using it.

Can I take aciclovir if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you’re pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking aciclovir.

Can I drink alcohol if I am taking aciclovir?

Whilst you could drink alcohol while taking aciclovir, as there are no known interactions between them, if you're experiencing a genital herpes outbreak, it's better to avoid excessive drinking to help your body recover from the infection more effectively.

Can I continue having sex if I am taking aciclovir?

Refrain from having sex while taking aciclovir until your sores have completely healed and your symptoms have subsided. After finishing treatment, it’s important to continue using a condom to lower the risk of spreading the infection, as herpes can still be contagious even when you don’t have visible symptoms.

Should I drink a lot of water when taking acyclovir tablets?

While taking aciclovir tablets, make sure to drink the recommended 8 glasses of water a day. This helps keep your kidneys healthy, as some side effects of the medication can impact kidney function.

Should I drive or operate machinery when taking aciclovir?

Aciclovir can make you feel tired or drowsy, which might affect your concentration and reaction times. If you notice these side effects, avoid driving or using machinery.

Where do I buy Aciclovir online?

You can safely buy Aciclovir online at UK Meds. Please note, all requests for supply of prescription medications are subject to an online clinical consultation and the decision to prescribe will be made by a GMC registered doctor.

Do I need a prescription for aciclovir tablet?

Yes. Aciclovir tablets are a prescription only medication. They are not available over the counter. If you require a prescription for the medication you can complete our simple online consultation and a GMC registered doctor will review your application.

• Can Genital Herpes Be Cured?
• How to get through your first outbreak of genital herpes