Generic Aciclovir

Introduction

Aciclovir is an antiviral medication that interferes with the replication of herpes‑type viruses. It belongs to the anti‑viral group of drugs and is routinely used in the United Kingdom for the treatment of genital herpes, oral herpes, and herpes zoster (shingles). The active compound, Aciclovir, is supplied by several manufacturers and is listed on the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) as a prescription‑only medicine. In addition to its primary viral indications, Aciclovir is occasionally prescribed for viral encephalitis and for preventing cytomegalovirus disease in high‑risk transplant patients, although these uses are less common.

What is Aciclovir?

Aciclovir is a synthetic nucleoside analogue that suppresses the replication of herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2, as well as varicella‑zoster virus (VZV). It is classified as an antiviral pro‑drug and was first developed by Burroughs Wellcome (now part of GlaxoSmithKline) in the 197s. The original brand name of the compound is Zovirax, marketed globally by GlaxoSmithKline.

Aciclovir is the generic version of Zovirax, containing the same active compound Aciclovir. Our online pharmacy provides this generic alternative as a cost‑effective treatment option.

How Aciclovir Works

Aciclovir is converted inside infected cells to aciclovir triphosphate, a molecule that mimics the natural nucleoside guanosine. The viral enzyme thymidine‑kinase phosphorylates Aciclovir to its monophosphate form, a step that occurs much more efficiently in HSV‑ or VZV‑infected cells than in healthy cells. The subsequent conversion to the triphosphate analogue allows it to be incorporated into viral DNA during replication. Once incorporated, the analogue terminates the DNA chain, halting further viral replication.

Because the activation relies on viral thymidine‑kinase, the drug concentrates its activity where the virus is actively replicating, resulting in a favourable therapeutic index. Oral absorption is rapid (≈ 90 % bioavailability), with peak plasma concentrations achieved within 1–2 hours. The drug is eliminated primarily by renal excretion; the half‑life in adults with normal renal function is approximately 2–3 hours, extending in patients with impaired kidney function.

Conditions Treated with Aciclovir

• Genital herpes (HSV‑2 and HSV‑1): Estimated prevalence in the UK is ~ 12 % of adults. Oral aciclovir reduces lesion duration, viral shedding, and transmission risk.
• Oral (labial) herpes (HSV‑1): Typically presents as cold sores. Early treatment shortens healing time and mitigates pain.
• Herpes zoster (shingles): Incidence rises sharply after age 50; aciclovir accelerates lesion resolution, reduces post‑herpetic neuralgia, and limits complications.
• Herpes simplex encephalitis (rare): Intravenous aciclovir is the standard of care, improving survival when administered early.
• Prophylaxis in immunosuppressed patients: In certain transplant or oncology settings, aciclovir suppresses reactivation of HSV/VZV, though alternative agents may be preferred.

The drug’s efficacy derives from its targeted inhibition of viral DNA synthesis, which translates into faster clinical resolution and lower rates of viral transmission for the conditions listed above.

Suitable Candidates for Aciclovir Treatment

Aciclovir is most appropriate for individuals who:

• Have a confirmed or clinically suspected HSV or VZV infection, particularly when treatment is initiated within 48 hours of symptom onset.
• Are immunocompetent adults experiencing recurrent genital or oral herpes episodes and seek to reduce lesion severity and duration.
• Are over 50 years old with newly diagnosed shingles, as early antiviral therapy decreases complications.
• Possess normal or mildly impaired renal function; dose adjustment is required for moderate to severe renal insufficiency.

Aciclovir may be unsuitable for:

• Patients with known hypersensitivity to aciclovir or any component of the tablet formulation.
• Individuals with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min) who have not received a reduced dose.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women without prior medical advice, as safety data are limited and alternative therapies may be preferred.

Clinicians evaluate each case against clinical guidelines (e.g., NICE NG123) to ensure the drug’s benefits outweigh potential risks.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Headache – mild, transient, often resolves without intervention.
• Nausea or vomiting – may be reduced by taking tablets with food.
• Diarrhoea – generally mild and self‑limiting.

Rare

• Renal impairment – especially in patients receiving high intravenous doses or with pre‑existing kidney disease.
• Elevated liver enzymes – reversible on discontinuation.
• Neutropenia – occasional laboratory finding, monitor in prolonged therapy.

Serious

• Severe hypersensitivity reactions – including Stevens‑Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, or drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS). Immediate cessation and emergency medical care are required.
• Anaphylaxis – rare, but possible; emergency treatment with epinephrine is indicated.
• Neurological effects – seizures or altered mental status have been reported with high plasma concentrations, particularly in renal failure.

Drug–Drug Interactions

• Probenecid – reduces renal clearance of aciclovir, potentially increasing plasma levels; dose adjustment may be necessary.
• Cimetidine – may increase aciclovir exposure; monitor for toxicity.
• Nephrotoxic agents (e.g., aminoglycosides, NSAIDs) – concurrent use can exacerbate renal dysfunction; regular renal function monitoring is advised.
• Live vaccines – aciclovir does not interfere with vaccine efficacy, but clinicians may defer vaccination in severely immunosuppressed patients.

Patients should disclose all concurrent medications, including over‑the‑counter products and herbal supplements, to their healthcare provider.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

Standard dosing (oral):

• Genital herpes (first‑episode or recurrence): 200 mg five times daily for 10 days (or 400 mg three times daily for 5 days).
• Oral herpes: 200 mg five times daily for 5 days (or 400 mg three times daily for 4 days).
• Herpes zoster: 800 mg five times daily for 7–10 days.

Intravenous dosing (hospital use): typically 5 mg/kg every 8 hours for severe infections, adjusted for renal function.

Missed dose: If a dose is forgotten, take it as soon as remembered unless it is close to the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to compensate for the missed one.

Overdose: Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or altered mental status. Immediate medical assessment is recommended. Activated charcoal may be considered if presentation is early, and supportive measures (e.g., intravenous fluids) are administered as needed.

Practical precautions:

• Take tablets with a full glass of water; a light meal can reduce gastrointestinal irritation.
• Alcohol consumption does not significantly affect aciclovir metabolism but can exacerbate liver stress; moderate intake is advisable.
• Renal function should be assessed before initiating therapy in older adults or those with known kidney disease; dose reduction may be required.

Buying Aciclovir from Our Online Pharmacy

Aciclovir can be purchased directly from our online pharmacy in the UK. We specialise in providing verified, high‑quality generic medications at prices close to the manufacturer cost, making treatment more affordable for patients who lack access through conventional pharmacy channels.

Key service advantages:

• Affordable pricing: Generic Aciclovir is offered at a fraction of the brand‑name cost, with transparent pricing displayed before checkout.
• Verified quality: All products are sourced from licensed overseas suppliers that meet European Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards. Our pharmacy conducts independent quality checks to ensure authenticity.
• Guaranteed delivery: Discreet packaging, with options for 7‑day express shipping or standard airmail (approximately 3 weeks). Tracking is provided for every order.
• Online‑only access: We operate as a pharmacy broker service, partnering with internationally accredited pharmacies. This model enables us to supply medications not routinely stocked in the UK while maintaining strict privacy protections.

Patients seeking a cost‑effective, reliable source of Aciclovir can order safely through our secure website, benefiting from a streamlined process that respects confidentiality and regulatory compliance.

FAQ

• Is Aciclovir available in both brand‑name and generic forms in the UK?
  Yes. The original brand‑name product is marketed as Zovirax, while numerous generic versions contain the same active compound, Aciclovir. Generic options are typically less expensive and are approved by the MHRA.

• Does Aciclovir require cold storage?
  No. Aciclovir tablets are stable at standard room temperature (15‑25 °C). They should be kept away from excessive heat, humidity, and direct sunlight, but refrigeration is not necessary.

• What packaging does Aciclovir come in when ordered online?
  When supplied by our online pharmacy, Aciclovir is packed in sealed, tamper‑evident blister packs or HDPE bottles, each labeled with the batch number, expiry date, and storage instructions. The outer parcel is discreetly labeled to protect privacy.

• Can Aciclovir be safely imported into the UK for personal use?
  Personal import of a three‑month supply of a legally authorised medication is permitted under UK law, provided the product is for personal use and declared correctly. Our pharmacy ensures that all shipments comply with customs regulations and include the necessary documentation.

• Are there manufacturer warnings about Aciclovir specific to Asian populations?
  Clinical studies have not identified ethnicity‑specific safety concerns for Aciclovir. However, dose adjustments are recommended for individuals with reduced renal clearance, which can be more prevalent in older Asian patients due to age‑related kidney function decline.

• Does Aciclovir have differences in formulation between regions (e.g., US vs EU vs Asia)?
  The active ingredient is identical worldwide, but excipient composition may vary. For example, European tablets often use lactose as a filler, whereas some Asian formulations use microcrystalline cellulose. These differences do not affect therapeutic efficacy but may be relevant for patients with specific excipient allergies.

• How long does Aciclovir remain stable after the expiry date?
  Stability testing by manufacturers shows that Aciclovir retains at least 90 % of its potency for up to six months beyond the printed expiry, provided storage conditions are optimal. Nevertheless, using medication after the expiry date is discouraged, as potency cannot be guaranteed.

• Can Aciclovir be taken during pregnancy?
  Data from limited human studies and animal reproductive investigations indicate no clear teratogenic risk, but the drug is classified as Pregnancy Category B in the UK. Pregnant women should consult their obstetrician before initiating therapy, especially in the first trimester.

• What is the risk of Aciclovir causing a positive drug test?
  Aciclovir is not a prohibited substance under standard workplace or sports drug testing programmes. Metabolites are not typically screened for, and the medication does not interfere with common immunoassay panels.

• How does Aciclovir interact with oral contraceptives?
  No clinically significant interaction has been identified between Aciclovir and combined oral contraceptives. Women using hormonal contraception can continue their regimen without dose adjustment.

• Is there a liquid formulation for children, and can adults use it?
  Aciclovir is available as a suspension (200 mg/5 mL) for paediatric dosing. Adults requiring a liquid form, such as those with swallowing difficulties, may use the same formulation, but the dose must be calculated according to adult prescribing guidelines.

• Does Aciclovir affect blood glucose levels in diabetics?
  Aciclovir does not directly influence glucose metabolism. However, severe infection or stress can transiently raise blood glucose, so diabetic patients should monitor their levels during an active herpes outbreak.

Glossary

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)

A DNA virus that causes oral (HSV‑1) and genital (HSV‑2) infections; it establishes latency in sensory neurons and can reactivate periodically.

Viral replication

The process by which a virus copies its genetic material and produces new viral particles within a host cell; inhibition of this step reduces disease severity.

Renal clearance

The volume of plasma cleared of a drug by the kidneys per unit time; for Aciclovir, it is primarily eliminated unchanged via glomerular filtration.

Prodrug

An inactive precursor that is metabolised in the body to produce the active drug; Aciclovir is a prodrug that requires intracellular phosphorylation to become active.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Aciclovir is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Aciclovir for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.