ACYCLOVIR SODIUM

Drug Name: ACYCLOVIR SODIUM

ACYCLOVIR SODIUM DESCRIPTION:
ACYCLOVIR - INJECTION (ay-SYE-klo-veer)

COMMON ACYCLOVIR SODIUM BRAND NAME(S):
Zovirax

ACYCLOVIR SODIUM SIDE EFFECTS:
ACYCLOVIR SODIUM may cause stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea, lightheadedness, headache, dizziness, itching or rash. These effects should disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become worse, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you notice pain or swelling at the injection site. Also notify your doctor if you have unusual tiredness or weakness, tremors, confusion, abdominal pain, change in amount of urine, increased thirst or vomiting. An allergic reaction to ACYCLOVIR SODIUM is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE ACYCLOVIR SODIUM:
ACYCLOVIR SODIUM: Begin using as soon as symptoms occur. Must be given by intravenous injection only. Infuse at a constant rate over at least one hour. This must not be injected rapidly or all at once. Use ACYCLOVIR SODIUM as directed. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Try to use the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. This will ensure a constant blood level of the medication and is most effective.

ACYCLOVIR SODIUM USES:
ACYCLOVIR SODIUM is used to treat herpes infections of the skin, mouth, brain, mucous membranes, genital herpes, herpes zoster (shingles), and chickenpox in some individuals. This medication does not cure herpes, but relieves the pain and may make the infection clear faster.

ACYCLOVIR SODIUM PRECAUTIONS:
ACYCLOVIR SODIUM should be used cautiously during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.

ACYCLOVIR SODIUM DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use (both prescription and nonprescription). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

ACYCLOVIR SODIUM OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include sluggishness, change in amount of urine, loss of consciousness, or seizures.

ACYCLOVIR SODIUM NOTES:
It is very important to drink plenty of water when receiving acyclovir by injection. Avoid sexual activity while signs and symptoms of genital herpes are present to prevent infecting your partner. Inform your doctor if ACYCLOVIR SODIUM does not appear to improve the frequency or severity of recurrent infections.

MISSED ACYCLOVIR SODIUM DOSE:
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

ACYCLOVIR SODIUM STORAGE:
ACYCLOVIR SODIUM must be stored properly. Review storage instruction with your doctor or pharmacist. Intravenous bags are to be stored in the refrigerator. Let a refrigerated bag sit at room temperature at least one hour before using. Check expiration date. Store vial at room temperature away from sunlight.