Aciclovir 400 mg – Overview

Aciclovir 400 mg is an antiviral medicine used to treat infections caused by the Herpes virus. It does not cure herpes but helps control symptoms, reduce outbreaks, and speed up healing.

Uses of Aciclovir 400 mg

It is commonly prescribed for:

1. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)

• Genital herpes

• Oral herpes (cold sores)

• Herpes skin infections

2. Varicella Zoster Virus

• Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

• 0Chickenpox (dose differs)

3. Suppressive Therapy

• To prevent frequent genital herpes outbreaks

How Aciclovir 400 Works

Aciclovir stops the herpes virus from multiplying.
It:

✔ Reduces the severity of infection
✔ Speeds up healing of sores
✔ Lowers pain, itching, burning
✔ Decreases risk of spreading the virus
✔ Prevents recurrent outbreaks (when used daily)

Dosage (General Guidance)

Important: Exact dose depends on condition and doctor’s advice.

1. Genital Herpes – First Episode

• 400 mg 3 times daily for 7–10 days

2. Recurrent Herpes

• 400 mg 3 times daily for 5 days, or

• 800 mg 2 times daily for 5 days

3. Suppressive Treatment (Daily Prevention)

• 400 mg twice daily

4. Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

• 800 mg 5 times daily for 7–10 days
  (A dose higher than 400 mg)

5. Chickenpox

• Adults: 800 mg 4 times daily for 5 days

• Children: Depends on weight

Do NOT self-dose. Follow your doctor’s prescription.

How to Take Aciclovir 400

• Swallow the tablet with water

• Take with or without food

• Drink plenty of water (prevents kidney-related side effects)

• Take at evenly spaced intervals

• Complete the full course

Side Effects

Common:

• Nausea

• Headache

• Stomach pain

• Tiredness

• Dizziness

Less Common:

• Skin rash

• Sensitivity to sunlight

Rare but Serious (seek help):

• Kidney problems (reduced urine, swelling)

• Confusion or hallucinations

• Severe allergic reaction

Warnings

Avoid or use with caution if you have:

• Kidney disease

• Dehydration

• Neurological disorders

• Immunocompromised conditions (need close monitoring)

Safe in pregnancy only when prescribed.

Benefits

✔ Controls herpes outbreaks
✔ Reduces pain & discomfort
✔ Helps sores heal faster
✔ Prevents frequent episodes
✔ Lowers virus transmission

Interactions

Inform your doctor if you take:

• Probenecid

• Cimetidine

• Mycophenolate

• Other nephrotoxic drugs

• Immunosuppressants

Storage

• Store at room temperature

• Keep away from heat, moisture, and sunlight

Conclusion

Aciclovir 400 mg is a trusted antiviral medicine widely used to manage herpes infections. It helps reduce symptoms, speed healing, and prevent recurrences when taken correctly.

FAQS

1. What is Aciclovir 400 mg used for?

Aciclovir 400 mg is used to treat infections caused by the herpes virus, including genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chickenpox. It may also be used for daily suppression of recurrent outbreaks.

2. Does Aciclovir cure herpes permanently?

No. Aciclovir does not cure herpes. It controls symptoms, reduces outbreaks, and speeds up healing, but the virus stays dormant in the body.

3. How long does Aciclovir 400 mg take to work?

Most people start feeling relief from pain, burning, or itching within 2–3 days, and sores typically heal within 7–10 days.

4. Can I take Aciclovir 400 mg daily?

Yes, for suppressive therapy (prevention), doctors often prescribe 400 mg twice daily. Only take daily under medical supervision.

5. What should I do if I miss a dose?

Take it as soon as you remember.
If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose.
Do not double the dose.

6. Can I drink alcohol while taking Aciclovir?

Yes, alcohol does not interact directly with Aciclovir.
However, excessive drinking may dehydrate you, increasing the risk of kidney-related side effects.

7. Is Aciclovir safe during pregnancy?

It is generally considered safe but should only be used when prescribed by a doctor.

8. Can Aciclovir prevent transmission of genital herpes?

It reduces the risk but does not eliminate it.
Use condoms and avoid sexual contact during active outbreaks.

9. Can I take Aciclovir 400 if I have kidney problems?

Use with caution. Your doctor may adjust the dose.
Stay hydrated to reduce kidney-related risks.