Aciclovir

Aciclovir (Acyclovir) is an antiviral medication prescribed for symptomatic relief of genital herpes, cold sores and shingles. It works by combatting the herpes virus, categorised into herpes simplex type 2 (HSVII), herpes simplex type 1(HSVI) and herpes zoster.

Aciclovir is available in tablet form from HealthExpress. For the treatment of cold sores, It is also available as topical cream (labelled Zovirax) from other vendors.

You can use this medication to prevent outbreaks and also to relieve symptoms. If you start taking the pills as soon as you notice symptoms, you can significantly reduce the time it takes for the infection to go away, often to within 1-2 days.

Herpes simplex type 2 (HSVII), herpes simplex type 1(HSVI) and herpes zoster cause the conditions genital herpes, cold sores and shingles, respectively.

Aciclovir contains the active ingredient of the same name. It works by stalling the spreading of the herpes virus throughout your body. Specifically, it stops viral cells from reproducing. By inhibiting the virus’ spread, the medication helps the body's natural defences to contain and attack the virus. Its effect means it drastically reduces how long symptoms last and lessens their severity. Symptoms include:

• itching sensations
• pain and discomfort
• lesions severity
• sore frequency

Remember - always follow your doctor’s advice when taking prescription medication.

You can take Aciclovir with or without a meal. However, you should always take the treatment with water; this is due to the risk of dehydration, as Aciclovir tablets can cause reduced kidney function.

The dosage you're recommended will depend on the type of infection and the symptoms' severity. Please follow the instructions below and thoroughly read the patient leaflet before taking Aciclovir:

• for an outbreak of genital herpes or cold sores - take one 200mg pill five times a day for 7 days
• for preventative treatment for genital herpes - take one 200mg pill four times a day for 6-12 months
• for shingles - take one 800mg tablet five times a day for 7 days
• for acute outbreaks - take three 400mg Aciclovir tablets daily for five days

If you miss a dose, you should take the missing pill as soon as you remember, or if it is very near your next dosage, then skip it. Do not take two tablets at once.

Each Aciclovir dose should be taken at the same time for the medication to be most successful, and your pill pack is clearly labelled to help you remember this.

What dosages are available?

Aciclovir tablets are available in three dosages; 200mg, 400mg and 800mg. At HealthExpress, we provide the 200 and 800mg doses, depending on the advice of your GP, it is better to start on a lower dose (200mg) which is more suitable for treating and preventing genital herpes and cold sores. Aciclovir 800mg tablets are often used for chickenpox and shingles.

Whenever you use prescription medication, there is a small risk of side effects. These are often temporary and most cease as the body becomes accustomed to the treatment. The common side effects that may accompany Aciclovir include:

• dizziness
• headaches
• nausea
• diarrhoea
• skin reactions
• stomach pain
• vomiting
• fatigue
• fever

Just because a side effect is listed does not mean you will experience it. However, should you suffer any adverse reactions, make sure to inform your doctor.

You should also inform your doctor if you find there are no changes to your symptoms after completing a course.

Most adults with genital herpes or other related viral infections can use Aciclovir tablets. There are, however, certain limitations and conditions that may prevent the use of this medicine. These include:

• allergies to any ingredients
• kidney problems
• diabetes
• substance abuse disorder
• pregnancy or breastfeeding, as research has shown that Aciclovir can pass into the breast milk so caution is advised

You should always inform the prescribing doctor of any medications you are taking, especially any of the following:

• cimetidine
• zidovudine
• probenecid
• mycophenolate mofetil
• tacrolimus
• theophylline
• ciclosporin

The above have been known to interact with Aciclovir.

What precautions should I take?

As genital herpes is sadly incurable and is easily transmitted to partners at all times, you should use barrier protection (condoms) and refrain from sexual contact during outbreaks. You should also communicate your condition to your partner.

If you are elderly, you should have regular checkups with your doctor. The medication has been known to have neurological side effects in elderly patients.

You should make sure to drink plenty of water while using Aciclovir. It has been known to cause dehydration.

Some of Aciclovir’s common side effects (dizziness/fatigue) may impact your concentration. You should consider your reaction to the treatment before you drive or operate machinery.

You can order medication like Aciclovir online, saving you the time and effort needed with an in-person appointment. HealthExpress stocks the following dosages: 200mg and 800mg.

Can I buy Aciclovir without a prescription?

Aciclovir is a prescription-only medication that requires a prescription from a doctor to ensure your safety. This can be obtained online through HealthExpress by completing an online consultation that is reviewed by our doctor.

Once your consultation is approved*, delivery is quick and confidential; only your name and address are on the outside of packages.

Our service at HealthExpress has all the relevant and mandatory safety certificates, including the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), General Medical Council (GMC) and the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).

*If the doctor does not approve your order on medical grounds, you will not be charged. You will also receive a medical justification as to why the order was not approved.