What are the side effects of acyclovir?

If you’re reading this, it probably means that you or someone you know has been prescribed acyclovir. Congratulations on being part of the herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2 treatment gang! In all seriousness though, acyclovir comes with a list of side effects that we’ll help decode for you.

What is Acyclovir?

Acyclovir is an antiviral drug that belongs to a group known as nucleoside analogs. It’s commonly used for treating infections caused by the herpes viruses: Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1/HSV-2), Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) and Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV).

Acyclovir works by stopping the spread of these viruses in your body while preventing them from replicating.

How does Acyclovir get into Your System?

Acyclovir can be taken orally in tablet form or applied topically as a cream or ointment. Once ingested, it is quickly absorbed into your bloodstream to make its way throughout your body until it reaches – finally – those pesky viral cells.

Although there are possible dangerous interactions when taking non-prescribed supplements alongside Acyclovir, doctors duly recommend using such only upon prescription and monitoring. Again: Do not take medications without proper medical advice!

Ok now let’s go through some potential downsides…

The common & other Side Effects

Like any medication out there cough cough, Aciclover itself bears its fair share of good/bad/sad/happy/funky/smelly (?) days. Here below are among two types one might expect following use:

Common Side Effects

These typically affect 1 in every 10 people who use acycolovoir and include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
    As we can see, it’s quite the party mix!

Other side effects

These are less commonly experienced – likely happening to just 1 in every 100 people.

Flaky and/or Itchy skin

Some users may experience flaky, itchy, or even burning sensations on their skin following use of acyclovir cream. This is particularly true for those who apply such topically.

Changes in your blood counts / Doctor Alert

In rare instances (Doctor Alert!) Acyclovir might cause reductions to some specific blood cells that help keep infections out which could lead you with a higher risk of catching further illness without adequate medical attention / treatments.

The Risks or Red Flags You Should Look Out For (AKA, Urgent Care Warning Signs!)

Certain people are more susceptible to serious adverse reactions from oral or topical use of acyclovir than others – if experiencing any symptoms from the below list whilst taking Acycolvoir get immediate er_mer_gency care:

  • Difficulty breathing; swelling of your face..throat __duck lips style.
    Warning: Anaphylactic reactions can be fatal!

  • Chest Pain

Remember folks; though all these ammunition above seem like a buzzkill, remind yourself that medication regimens should always be balanced against their potential benefits and risks before starting off with them!!

Random Posts