Acyclovir-Vertex, cream 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 formation of acyclovir triphosphate in intact cells of macroorganism.

Aciclovir triphosphate, “embedding” into the DNA synthesized by the virus, blocks the reproduction of the virus. 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

Simple herpes of the skin and mucous membranes, genital herpes (primary and recurrent); localized shingles (adjuvant therapy).

Active ingredient

Composition

100 g of cream contain:

active ingredient:

acyclovir – 5.0 g;

excipients:

propylene glycol – 8.0 g;

liquid paraffin (petroleum jelly) – 12.0 g;

Cetyl alcohol – 6.0 g;

Macrogoal 6 cetostearyl ether – 1.5 g;

macrogoal 25 cetostearyl ether – 1.5 g;

methylparahydroxybenzoate (methylparaben, nipagin) – 0.15 g;

Propylparahydroxybenzoate (propylparaben, nipazole) – 0.05 g;

Purified water – up to 100.0 g.

How to take, the dosage

Acyclovir cream is applied to the affected surface 5 times a day (every 4 hours).

The duration of treatment is 5-10 days.

Interaction

A stronger effect is noted with the simultaneous administration of immunostimulants.

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 to apply to the mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes and genitals because pronounced local inflammation may develop.

In patients with immunodeficiency if repeated courses of treatment are repeated sometimes viral resistance to acyclovir develops.

When taking the drug it is necessary to monitor renal function (blood urea and plasma creatinine levels).

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity.
With caution. Pregnancy, lactation.

Side effects

Hyperemia, dryness, skin peeling; burning, inflammation in contact with mucous membranes.

Possible development of allergic dermatitis.

Similarities