Aciclovir

What is Aciclovir?

Aciclovir is a non-branded version of Zovirax. Because it’s a generic medication, it’s usually a little cheaper, but the results it offers are exactly the same. Aciclovir is normally prescribed to treat infections caused by the herpes virus. It helps to remove the visible symptoms caused by the infection and leaves your skin looking nice and clear. You might see this medication used to treat other viruses like shingles or chickenpox.

The cream version is usually prescribed to treat cold sores, whereas the tablets are prescribed to tackle herpes and genital herpes directly. You can also get Aciclovir as an injection, but this is usually administered in a hospital. You don’t always require a prescription for either of these treatments. Aciclovir can often be bought in a supermarket or pharmacy without having to get a prescription.

How does Aciclovir work?

Aciclovir is named after its active ingredient, aciclovir, which acts by inhibiting viral DNA replication. By doing this, it reduces the severity of the infection and stops the virus from spreading.

Although aciclovir won’t cure herpes, it does help relieve the pain and discomfort, and helps the sores (if any) heal faster. Aciclovir is just as effective at stopping future outbreaks as it is from treating current ones.

What doses of Aciclovir are there?

There are only two dosage options available for Aciclovir. For the tablet version it’s a 200 mg tablet, and for the cream it’s one tube that contains 5% of the natural ingredient, aciclovir.

How to take Aciclovir

The 200 mg tablets should be taken five times per day for three to five days to treat a recurring herpes outbreak. The cream can typically be applied around five times per day to the area of the cold sore. If you don’t notice any visible improvements at the end of this period then chat with our clinician for further assistance.

We always recommend taking this medication as advised by our clinician for the best results. However, if you have any questions you can always refer to the treatments product information. This should be included in the box with your treatment.

Aciclovir tablet instructions

• Dissolve the tablet in a glass of water and stir before drinking.
• If you prefer, the tablet can also be swallowed whole with a little water.
• Start to take your tablets as soon as an outbreak is noticed.
• The dose that you should take will depend on the condition that you have been prescribed Aciclovir for. Our clinician will discuss this with you before you order.

Aciclovir cream instructions

• Start to take treatment as soon as you notice a cold sore forming.
• Gently rub the cream on the affected area.
• Let your skin absorb the cream. Do not wash the cream away with water.

How long does it take Aciclovir to work?

Treatment time can vary depending on you and the severity of your infection. You should start to feel the positive effects of Aciclovir within five days of starting your course. If you don’t feel any positive benefits after five days, send our clinician a message.

What should I do if I make a mistake when taking Aciclovir?

Aciclovir isn’t usually harmful. But you should avoid taking too much of it over several days. If you have taken too much, you should contact our clinician or a healthcare professional for further advice as soon as you can. Be sure to bring your product box and leaflet with you if they ask you to visit them for an appointment.

What if I forget to take Aciclovir?

• If you forget to take a dose of Aciclovir 200 mg, just take a tablet as soon as you remember.
• If you remember once your next dose is due, then just skip the forgotten dose and continue with your treatment as normal.
• Don’t take a double dose to make up for a missed tablet

Medically reviewed by

Dr Daniel Atkinson

GP Clinical Lead

on August 02, 2022.

Meet Daniel