What is Acyclovir?
Acyclovir is an antiviral drug sold as the brand-name medication Zovirax. It can be found on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines and is available as a generic alternative. Acyclovir (Zovirax) comes in the form of a tablet which is administered by mouth and metabolized minimally by the liver. It is then excreted by the kidneys with a short half-life ranging between 2 - 4 hours. Acyclovir (Zovirax) is only available with a valid prescription. We carry both the brand and generic product in three strengths (200, 400, and 800 mg) at My Drug Center.
What is Acyclovir used for?
Acyclovir (Zovirax) is used for the treatment of viral infections, specifically the herpes simplex and varicella zoster viruses. These viruses cause many infections which can be treated with Acyclovir; infections include cold sores, shingles, acute chickenpox, and genital herpes, among others. Additionally, Acyclovir may also be used following a transplant or severe complications of Epstein-Barr virus infection to help treat cytomegalovirus infections. Acyclovir is not effective at treating fungal or bacterial infections.
How does Acyclovir work?
Acyclovir works by slowing the growth and spread of the virus which is done after multiple conversions of the drug during metabolism. Once it enters your body, the action of viral thymidine kinase (a virus enzyme) converts Acyclovir into its Monophosphate form, and shortly after, the guanylate kinase enzyme converts Acyclovir from its Monophosphate form into its Diphosphate form. Finally, it is then converted from its Diphosphate form into Acyclovir Triphosphate; this form of Acyclovir competitively inhibits viral DNA polymerase (which is needed for the virus to replicate their genomes), incorporates into the growing viral DNA chain which results in its termination, and inactivates the polymerase.
How long does it take for Acyclovir to work?
The exact amount of time it takes Acyclovir to begin working will vary between each individual. In general, Acyclovir takes about 2 hours to reach peak plasma concentration and up to 3 days before a reduction in symptoms occurs. The medication will work best if taken within 2 days (48 hours) of symptom onset. You may want to notify your doctor if you do not notice an improvement within 2-3 days of treatment.
What are the side effects of Acyclovir?
Side effects of Acyclovir may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, feeling ill, or headache. These side effects are a normal response of the body when taking Acyclovir for the first time and should go away over time as your body adjusts to it. However, if at any point they become unmanageable, or do not go away over time, you should consult with your doctor.
How much is Acyclovir?
The cost of most medications, including Acyclovir, will vary depending on where you purchase your supply from. Medications in the United States are often higher in price compared to medications purchased internationally. For example, at My Drug Center, we offer Acyclovir internationally at $59.00 for a supply of 112 tablets (400mg). In the United States, the same supply of Zovirax is more than 20 times as expensive, on average.
How to take Acyclovir?
Your dosing regimen will be determined by your doctor based off a number of factors, such as your medical condition, the severity of the condition, and your age. Depending on the condition, you may only need to take Acyclovir for 5 days; other conditions may take up to 10-14 days, and up to 12 months for prevention of recurrent outbreaks of genital herpes. Most patients take Acyclovir between 2-5 times per day. Unless your doctor has directed otherwise, your tablet should be swallowed whole without crushing, chewing, or splitting the tablet in half; you may take your dose with food if no restrictions were set in place by your doctor.
Where can I buy Zovirax?
You can purchase the brand-name product (as well as the generic alternative) from the comfort of your own home through My Drug Center. Online Canadian Pharmacy services like My Drug Center make it possible for you to order medication internationally without having to leave your home. Additionally, international prices are commonly much cheaper than what you would generally find at local United States pharmacies. So not only is filling your prescription through My Drug Center easy, but also easier on the wallet. You can place an order by calling our toll free number of 1-877-385-8998; keep in mind, you will require a valid prescription for this medication.