Acivir 400 Dt

ACIVIR 400 DT

ACIVIR 400 DT is a dispersible tablet manufactured by Cipla Ltd., primarily used as an antiviral medication.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: ACIVIR 400 DT
  • Common Name: Aciclovir (Acyclovir)

• Composition: Each dispersible tablet contains 400 mg of Aciclovir, BP.

• Uses: ACIVIR 400 DT is prescribed for the treatment and prevention of various viral infections caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). These include:

  • Herpes Simplex Virus infections: Initial and recurrent genital herpes, cold sores (herpes labialis), and other herpes simplex infections of the skin and mucous membranes.
  • Varicella-Zoster Virus infections: Chickenpox and shingles (herpes zoster). It also aids in the suppression of recurrent herpes simplex infections in immunocompetent patients and prophylaxis in immunocompromised individuals.

• Dosage and Administration: ACIVIR 400 DT should be taken as advised by a healthcare professional. It can be dissolved in a glass of water and stirred before drinking, or swallowed whole with a little water. It may be taken with or without food, preferably at a fixed time. Dosage varies based on the condition; for instance, suppressing recurrent genital herpes typically involves 400 mg twice daily. For chickenpox in children aged 2 to 6 years, 400 mg four times daily is suggested, while adults with chickenpox or herpes zoster may take 800 mg five times daily. Maintaining adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water during treatment is crucial to prevent dehydration and kidney damage.

• Side Effects: Common side effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, fatigue, fever, stomach pain, and skin rash. Serious but rare side effects may include hives, blistering or peeling rash, yellow skin or eyes, unusual bruising or bleeding, loss of consciousness, seizures, difficulty breathing, hallucinations, and swelling of the face, tongue, lips, or throat.

• Precautions: Caution is advised in patients with kidney disease, the elderly, and those receiving potentially nephrotoxic agents, as it may increase the risk of renal dysfunction or central nervous system symptoms. It is contraindicated in patients with a known allergy to aciclovir. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their doctor. Potential drug interactions exist with probenecid, cimetidine, mycophenolate mofetil, and certain antibiotics and antivirals, which may increase aciclovir plasma concentrations.

• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture, ideally at a temperature below 30°C (or 10-25°C). Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

What is ACIVIR 400 DT used for?

ACIVIR 400 DT is an antiviral medicine primarily used to treat infections caused by herpes simplex viruses and varicella-zoster viruses. This includes conditions such as herpes labialis (cold sores), genital herpes, other herpes simplex infections, shingles (herpes zoster), and chickenpox. It helps manage symptoms, accelerate healing, and can also be used to prevent these infections from recurring, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.

How does ACIVIR 400 DT work?

ACIVIR 400 DT contains the active ingredient aciclovir, which is an antiviral agent. It works by targeting and stopping the growth and multiplication of specific viruses, including herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV-1, HSV-2) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). Aciclovir is converted into its active form within virus-infected cells, where it then interferes with the viral DNA polymerase enzyme, halting the virus's ability to replicate its DNA and thus preventing further viral spread.

What is the usual dosage for ACIVIR 400 DT?

The dosage of ACIVIR 400 DT varies depending on the specific infection being treated, the patient's age, and kidney function. For treating chickenpox and shingles, a common adult dose might be two 400 mg tablets taken five times a day for seven days, spaced approximately four hours apart. For cold sores and genital herpes, initial treatment often involves 200 mg tablets taken five times daily for 5-10 days. For suppressing recurrent genital herpes, a dose of 400 mg twice daily for up to 12 months may be prescribed. ACIVIR 400 DT tablets can be dissolved in a glass of water or swallowed whole with a little water. Always adhere strictly to your doctor's prescribed dose and duration.

What are the possible side effects of ACIVIR 400 DT?

Common side effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, fatigue, rash, itching, and increased skin sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity). Less common side effects can include an itchy, hive-like rash or hair loss. Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention and may include severe allergic reactions (e.g., swelling of the face, lips, tongue, difficulty breathing, blistering or peeling skin), confusion, agitation, hallucinations, seizures, or signs of kidney problems like changes in urine output or back pain.

Is ACIVIR 400 DT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: Caution is advised when taking ACIVIR 400 DT during pregnancy. It is recommended to consult your doctor to discuss the potential risks and benefits before starting this medication if you are pregnant or planning to conceive. Some sources indicate it is generally considered unsafe during pregnancy with some evidence of risk to the developing baby, while others suggest it has been used safely in specific cases, but comprehensive data on all potential defects is limited.

Breastfeeding: ACIVIR 400 DT should be used with caution by breastfeeding mothers, as the drug can pass into breast milk. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor before use.

Can ACIVIR 400 DT be taken with other medications?

While no broad, clinically significant interactions have been identified, ACIVIR 400 DT can interact with certain medications. Drugs such as Probenecid, Cimetidine, and Mycophenolate mofetil may increase the concentration of aciclovir in the blood. Caution is also advised when taken with other medications that might affect kidney function, as this could increase the risk of kidney problems. You should inform your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions. Avoid using medications containing valacyclovir simultaneously, as it is very similar to aciclovir.

What precautions should be taken while using ACIVIR 400 DT?

It is crucial to drink plenty of water throughout your treatment to prevent dehydration and potential kidney damage. If you have existing kidney or liver conditions, ACIVIR 400 DT should be used with caution, and your doctor may need to adjust your dosage. Elderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects and often require careful monitoring and potentially lower doses. Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to aciclovir, valaciclovir, or any of its ingredients. Since it may cause dizziness or affect vision, exercise caution when driving or operating machinery. Remember that herpes infections are contagious, even during treatment; maintain good hygiene and avoid direct contact with infected areas to prevent transmission.

What happens if a dose of ACIVIR 400 DT is missed?

If you miss a dose of ACIVIR 400 DT, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a missed one.

How should ACIVIR 400 DT be stored?

ACIVIR 400 DT should be stored at room temperature, generally below 25°C or 30°C. Keep it in a dry place, protected from direct light and moisture. Ensure the medicine is kept out of the reach and sight of children and pets. Do not use the medication after its expiry date.