Herpes and Zoster virus-related diseases are among the most common health problems globally. These viral infections affect countless people.
It is worth noting that herpes often only causes cosmetic discomfort, for example, in the lip area. Nevertheless, its recurrence or severe forms can significantly worsen the quality of life and lead to serious complications. This is especially common in people with weakened immunity.
In this case, the solution is a correctly chosen treatment. There is a drug, Acyclovir, which is distinguished by its effectiveness and quality. It relieves symptoms caused by viral infections and shortens the duration of the disease.
What is the mechanism of action of this drug, when is it used, what are the side effects and contraindications, what is the price and availability of Acyclovir 200 mg – you can find this and other interesting information in the blog.
Acyclovir belongs to the group of antiviral drugs. It is primarily used to treat and prevent infections caused by the herpes virus group. It can be said that the drug's mechanism of action is unique – the medicine is only activated in cells that are already infected. This fact significantly reduces the risk of developing side effects.
It is worth noting that its mechanism of action includes several main stages:
Penetration into the infected cell - This is the first stage. Initially, Acyclovir is a pharmacologically inactive substance. It penetrates both infected and uninfected cells. However, it is activated only in cells affected by the virus.
Selective Activation (Phosphorylation) - This is the most important stage of Acyclovir's action. In cells infected with Herpes viruses (Herpes Simplex I/II, Varicella Zoster), a special viral enzyme called Thymidine Kinase exists. Acyclovir is converted into its active form - Acyclovir Triphosphate - only when it encounters the enzyme produced by the virus (Thymidine Kinase). It is worth noting that the enzymes of uninfected human cells do not recognize Acyclovir and cannot act on it.
Blocking Viral Replication - Active Acyclovir Triphosphate binds to the virus's DNA polymerase, breaks the DNA chain, and hinders viral multiplication.
As a result, the virus can no longer multiply its own genetic material and create new viral particles. This stops the spread of the infection.
Reduces Pain and Symptom Duration - Acyclovir not only blocks the virus but also relieves pain, reduces the number of blisters, accelerates healing, and prevents the symptoms from worsening.
That is why Acyclovir is one of the safest and most effective drugs for the treatment of Herpes infections.
Acyclovir is a specialized antiviral drug. It is particularly effective when treatment is started immediately upon detection of the first symptoms - burning, itching, or pain.
More specifically, we will now introduce you to the situations in which this medication is used.
Infections caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
Genital Herpes (HSV-2) - Acyclovir is prescribed for the treatment of severe initial episodes to reduce the severity of symptoms and accelerate the healing of sores. Additionally, it is used for the prevention of frequent recurrences of genital herpes. The drug significantly reduces the frequency of viral flare-ups and the risk of its transmission to a partner.
Oral Herpes (HSV-1) (Cold Sores) - The medication is used to treat recurrent outbreaks. It shortens the duration of symptoms, prevents the formation of new blisters, and relieves pain and irritation.
Herpetic Ophthalmia (Herpetic Keratitis): Acyclovir is used to treat eye infections, such as herpetic keratitis. This is important to prevent corneal damage and vision impairment.
Infections caused by the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV)
Chickenpox (Varicella) - Generally, chickenpox runs a mild course in children. Acyclovir is prescribed to adults or children who have a high risk of complications. Treatment should begin within the first 24 hours of the appearance of the rash. This shortens the duration of the disease.
Shingles (Herpes Zoster) - Causes an infection accompanied by severe pain and a rash. The main goal of Acyclovir is to accelerate the healing of lesions, alleviate acute pain, and most importantly, reduce the risk of developing postherpetic neuralgia.
It is worth noting that Acyclovir also plays an important role in preventive medicine.
Immunocompromised Patients - In patients with a weakened immune system, the risk of herpes virus reactivation is high. In this case, Acyclovir is used for prophylaxis to prevent infection.
Chronic Suppressive Therapy - If a patient has genital or oral herpes recurrence 6 or more times a year, the doctor may take appropriate measures. The specialist prescribes a low dose of Acyclovir for a long period to effectively suppress the virus activation.
It is clear that Acyclovir is an important weapon in the fight against viruses. Nevertheless, keep in mind that it is advisable to take the drug based on a doctor's recommendation.
First, it should be noted that the dosage of Acyclovir depends on several factors. It is important what type of herpes virus you are dealing with, how severe the symptoms are, and whether the drug should be taken for treatment or prevention. Keep in mind that the exact dose is determined by the doctor, but there are also general rules.
For the treatment of Herpes-associated fever, skin, and genital herpes in adults, 200 mg 5 times a day is prescribed. The medication should be taken every 4 hours while awake. Generally, the course of treatment lasts for 5 days.
For children over 2 years old, the same dose is prescribed as for adults. For children under 2 years old, 100 mg 5 times a day is recommended.
This antiviral drug is available in Georgia. You can purchase it at the PSP pharmacy chain.
It is worth noting that several important factors influence the cost of the drug. For example, these include the brand, quality of production, number of tablets in the package, dosage, etc. Furthermore, PSP is a pharmacy that often treats its customers with various promotions and offers.
That is why the price of Acyclovir 200 mg may vary. Information about stocks and value can be found on the pharmacy chain's website or by visiting the pharmacy in person.
When taking any medication, it is essential to consider certain recommendations. Effective results are only achieved this way.
Try to take Acyclovir with food. This will help you avoid problems such as stomach irritation.
Take the tablets at equal time intervals throughout the day. This ensures the maintenance of a constant concentration of the drug in the blood, which is essential for effective virus suppression.
Drink plenty of water - Acyclovir belongs to medications excreted through the kidneys. Therefore, fluid intake is extremely important. This reduces the risk of kidney damage.
Do not stop treatment immediately after symptoms disappear - It is important to complete the full course. Its premature discontinuation may cause a recurrence.
Acyclovir 200 mg is among the medications that the body tolerates easily. However, like all drugs, it also has potential side effects. Also, there are situations where caution is necessary.
It is worth noting that side effects are often mild and disappear quickly. The most common among them are: nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, loss of appetite, headache and dizziness, mild rash, itching, skin irritation.Rarely, impairment of kidney function may occur. This usually happens if you take a high dose of the drug and insufficient fluid.
Very rarely, neurological symptoms such as confusion, restlessness, and drowsiness may occur.
The drug also has contraindications, and it is important that every patient has information about this.
Do not take Acyclovir if you are allergic to any of its components.
In patients with renal failure or kidney disease, dose adjustment and medical supervision are required. Also, keep in mind that if you are dehydrated, you should not start taking the drug until this problem is resolved.
The medication is not recommended during pregnancy and lactation.
It should also be noted that very rarely, Acyclovir can cause neurological symptoms. That is why special caution is needed.
It is important not to exceed the prescribed dose arbitrarily and always consult a doctor on this matter.
Acyclovir is one of the most effective means of managing and controlling infections caused by herpes viruses. The effectiveness of this drug is due to its mechanism of action and composition.
Nevertheless, before deciding to purchase the drug, you should consider factors such as the dose, precautions, and the price of Acyclovir 200 mg.
Furthermore, it is necessary to follow the doctor's instructions during treatment, not to change the dose arbitrarily, and not to stop the course prematurely. Remember that only the correct diagnosis and individually selected course will lead you to the desired result.
