Acyclovir is usually used to treat certain infections, such as cold sores, chickenpox, and shingles.
Acyclovir for Shingles Treatment
This is a prescription antiviral medication that is available in the form of a pill. As an antiviral medication, it will not cure you of your shingles but will help to alleviate the symptoms associated with shingles. It will help to lessen the severity of the pain and itching that you can experience with shingles.
Most patients take acyclovir two to five times per day at the same times every day unless their doctors recommends a different regimen. This consistency will only better the results of Acyclovir.
Side effects of this medication include nausea, diarrhea, headache, or vomiting. Serious side effects may also include signs of kidney problems, mental or mood changes, unsteady movement, and trouble speaking.
If you believe you are having any of these side effects, contact your doctor as soon as possible. He or she will be able to decide whether you should continue to use Acyclovir or try another prescription medicine.
Do not take Acyclovir if you are allergic to it or any of the ingredients the medication contains. Be sure to let your doctor know about the medications that you are taking currently as some of them may interact negatively with the ingredients in this shingles treatment.
Do not take any medication that has the drug because it is similar to Acyclovir, which may cause problems if they interact with each other.
Your doctor will be able to prescribe you with the appropriate dosage, but you should remember to take the right dosage at the exact same times every day until your treatment is complete.
Remember to talk to your doctor or a professional healthcare provider to see if Acyclovir is right for you and your condition of shingles.
Featured Image: DepositPhotos/ Tharakorn