Acyclovir Topical

Medication Description

Topical Acyclovir is an antiviral ointment used to treat symptoms of herpes simplex virus (HSV), including oral herpes (HSV-1), commonly known as cold sores, and genital herpes (HSV-2). It works by slowing the growth and spread of the herpes virus to help the body fight the infection and reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.

How Topical Acyclovir Is Commonly Used:

For cold sores (HSV-1) it's often recommended to apply up to 5 times daily for a specified duration of approximately 4-5 days.

For genital herpes (HSV-2) it's often recommend to apply to the affected area up to 6 times daily for up to 7 days.

Treatment should begin as early as possible after the onset of symptoms such as tingling, redness, itching, or the appearance of a sore.

Wash hands before and after applying the medication. Apply a thin layer to the affected area and surrounding skin as directed. Do not cover with a bandage unless advised by a healthcare provider.

Topical Acyclovir is for external use only and should not be applied to the eyes, inside the mouth, or inside the genital tract.
Acyclovir Topical Side Effects

Side effects may include skin irritation, dry skin, cracking, burning or stinging and itching of the skin.
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only a healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for you. TelyRx does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a limited summary of general information about the medicine’s uses from the patient education materials and is not intended to be comprehensive. This limited summary does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. This information is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and does not replace information you may receive from your healthcare provider. For a more detailed summary of information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine, please review the entire patient education information you receive with the medication.