In this article, we will discuss Acyclovir (Zovirax). So, let’s get started.
Acyclovir
Acyclovir Neonatal HSV: Skin, eye and mouth disease: 20 mg/kg q 8 hr IV for 14 days; Disseminated and CNS disease: 20 mg/kg q 8 hr IV for 21 days. HSV encephalitis: Age >28 days to <12 yrs: 20 mg/kg q 8 hr IV for 21 days; ≥12 yrs: 10 mg/kg q 8 hr IV for 21 days. Varicella in immunocompetent host: 20 mg/kg q 6 hr (maximum 800 mg/dose) for 5 days (beneficial only when given within first 24 hours of onset of rash). Recommended only in individuals at increased risk of moderate to severe varicella: Non-pregnant individuals >12 yr, individuals >12 months with chronic cutaneous and pulmonary disorder, short-term steroid, long-term salicylate therapy and secondary cases of household contacts. Varicella-zoster in immunocompromised children: 10 mg/kg q 8 hr or 500 mg/m²/dose q 8 hr for 7-10 days. Herpes zoster or chickenpox in adolescents and adults 800 mg q 6 hr for 5 days. Herpes simplex 200 mg q 4 hr for 5 days.
Caution: The recommended final concentration for IV administration is ≤7 mg/ml. Administer over at least one hour to prevent renal tubular damage.
(Zovirax, acivir, ocuvir, axovir, acyclor, herperex, herpikind, herpex tabs 200 mg, 400 mg, 800 mg; zovirax susp 400 mg/5 ml in 100 ml bottle, inj acivir, zovirax 250 mg 1 ml ampoule; ophthalmic ointment 3% and herpex, ocuvir skin ointment 5%).