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Acyclovir
Pronounced ay-SY-klo-veer
Brand names: Zovirax
Type: Antiviral (herpes viruses) · All Antibiotics & Infection Medicines
What Acyclovir is used for
- Genital herpes and cold sores
- Shingles
- Chickenpox in higher-risk patients
- Herpes brain infection (hospital)
◆ Kidney note
Cleared by the kidneys — the dose is lowered when kidney function is reduced, and good hydration is essential to prevent crystal injury.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
Important cautions
- Can crystallize in the kidneys if given quickly or with dehydration — drinking fluids and slow infusions protect the kidneys
How it comes
Tablets, capsules, liquid, injection (hospital), cream and ointment. This guide lists forms only — it never lists strengths or doses.
Toxicity lists: Acyclovir also appears on Medicines That Can Harm the Kidneys.
Related medicines — Antibiotics & Infection Medicines
Please note: This page is a patient-education summary, not medical advice, and it deliberately contains no doses. Medicines affect everyone differently — always follow your own prescription and talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.