What Should You Know About Acyclovir?
Acyclovir is used to treat Bell's palsy as well as herpes infection. This medication should only be taken as prescribed by one's doctor as it may have adverse side-effects to a patient. As an antiviral drug, taking acyclovir mainly slows down assumed inciting infections, even though its effectiveness in the improvement of functional facial outcomes in patients suffering from Bell's palsy is still contested.
Taking acyclovir medication should be as prescribed by your doctor and should be taken with a full glass of water per dose. It is also very important to drink lots of water while taking this medication to ensure that your kidneys continue to work properly. Acyclovir can be taken on an empty stomach though it is generally advised to take this after a meal to decrease any likelihood of an upset stomach. This medication is available in generic formulations or under the Zovirax and Zovir brand names.
Acyclovir is one of the most commonly used antiviral drugs due to its low and very selective cytotoxicity. It is also considered as a prodrug as it is initially administered in an inactive or less active form which is later on metabolized into a more active species after its administration. Acyclovir is commonly indicated as treatment for VZV and HSV infections as well as Bell's palsy. This medication can be applied as a topical cream for VZV and HSV, but if this medication is taken orally or is injected if high concentration is needed, it can prevent any recurrences including that of the Bell's palsy condition.
What should you know about acyclovir's side-effects? The possible mild side-effects of the acyclovir medication generally include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, headache, stomach pain, light-headedness or swelling in your hands or feet. There may be other side-effects not mentioned. If you are taking this medication and feel something unusual or bothersome, consult with your doctor immediately. However, if the side-effects you experience while taking acyclovir include breathing difficulty, hives, and swelling of your throat, face, lips or tongue, stop the medication at once and call your doctor. Apart from its mild side-effects, you may not be able to take acyclovir if you are taking other types of medication. Before you take this medication, ensure that you carefully discuss with your doctor in detail all the medications you are currently taking, including any vitamins, herbal products, minerals and other drugs which may be prescribed by other doctors. Otherwise, failure to inform your doctor about the other medications you are taking may result in adverse side-effects. Bear in mind that this medication can cause seizures, coma, anaphylaxis, anorexia, hepatitis, leucopenia, Stevens-Johnson syndrome and other rare adverse affects. To avoid this, have a serious discussion with your doctor first before going ahead with the medication. Moreover, acyclovir medication should be avoided if you plan to get pregnant or when you are pregnant. This medication is a chromosome mutagen which can be incorporated into your cellular DNA. With proper prescription from your doctor, this medication should be safe.
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