Acyclovir, ointment 5% 5 g

The antiviral drug is a synthetic analog of thymidine nucleoside.

In infected cells containing viral thymidine kinase is phosphorylated and converted into acyclovir monophosphate. Under the influence of guanylate cyclase acyclovir monophosphate is converted into diphosphate and under the influence of several cellular enzymes into triphosphate. High selectivity and low toxicity for humans is caused by the absence of necessary enzyme for acyclovir triphosphate formation in intact cells of macroorganism.
Acyclovir triphosphate “integrates” into DNA synthesized by virus and blocks virus multiplication.

The specificity and very high selectivity of action are also due to its preferential accumulation in cells affected by the herpes virus.

Highly active against Herpes simplex viruses of types 1 and 2; viruses causing chicken pox and shingles (Varicella zoster); Epstein-Barr virus (types of viruses are listed in ascending order of MAC value of acyclovir).

It is moderately active against CMV.

In herpes it prevents formation of new rash elements, reduces the likelihood of cutaneous dissemination and visceral complications, accelerates crust formation, reduces pain in the acute phase of herpes zoster.

Indications

Herpes simplex skin and mucous membranes, genital herpes (primary and recurrent);
localized shingles (adjuvant treatment).

Active ingredient

Composition

1 g of ointment for external use contains:

the active ingredient:

acyclovir 50 mg

How to take, the dosage

Special Instructions

Caution should be exercised when prescribing Acyclovir to patients with impaired renal function and elderly patients due to the increased elimination half-life of acyclovir.

Amplete intake of fluids should be ensured during the use of the drug.

The ointment is not recommended for use on the mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes and genitals because pronounced local inflammation may develop.

The effectiveness of the treatment with the ointment will be higher the earlier it is started.

In immunodeficient patients with multiple repeated courses of treatment, viral resistance to acyclovir sometimes develops.

When taking the drug, renal function (blood urea and plasma creatinine levels) should be monitored.

Contraindications

With caution – pregnancy, lactation, dehydration, renal failure.

Side effects

Hyperemia, dryness, skin flaking; burning, inflammation in contact with mucous membranes. Allergic dermatitis may develop.

Pregnancy use

The use of the drug in pregnancy is possible only when the estimated benefit to the mother exceeds the potential risk to the fetus.

Acyclovir penetrates the placental barrier and accumulates in breast milk. If it is necessary to take acyclovir during lactation, interruption of breastfeeding is required.

Similarities