ACICLOVIR ANTI-VIRAL...
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Synthetic analogue of guanosine, which is phosphorylated to
become an active compound, aciclovir triphosphate. Aciclovir triphosphate competes with
the natural nucleotide as a substrate to viral DNA polymerase and thus inhibits viral DNA
replication.
- Treatment and prophylaxis of herpes simplex infections.
- Treatment of herpes zoster and varicella infections.
- Hypersensitivity to aciclovir.
- Caution in renal impairment (dose adjustment may be required).
- GI disturbance.
- Headache and dizziness.
- Rash, fatigue and fever.
- Renal failure.
- t½ is between 2.5–3 h.
- Most of the drug is excreted unchanged in urine.
- Regular monitoring of renal function is required in elderly patients on longterm or IV therapy.
- Increased risk of nephrotoxicity with concomitant use of ciclosporin or tacrolimus.
- Maintain adequate hydration in patients on high doses or with renal failure (to reduce the risk of nephrotoxicity).
- Elderly patients are at risk of neurological reactions due to reduced renal function and hence clearance. Examples of neurological symptoms include agitation, confusion, tremor, ataxia, convulsions and encephalopathy.
- IV treatment for 10 days is usually required for encephalitis.
- Can be given topically for skin and eye disease
