Acyclovir (Topical)

(ay SYE kloe veer)

Dosage Forms

• This medicine is available as an ointment.

Pharmacologic Category

• Antiviral Agent, Topical

Is it safe for my child to take this medicine?

• Not if your child has an allergy to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any other part of this medicine.
• Be sure to let healthcare provider know if your child has any allergies or reactions to medicine, food preservatives, or dyes. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected your child. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.

Why does my child need this medicine?

• This medicine is used to prevent or treat herpes infections.

How does this medicine work?

• Acyclovir works to injure the virus and fight the infection.

How is this medicine given?

• Do not give by mouth. For skin only. Keep out of your child's mouth, nose, and eyes (may burn).
• Wash hands before and after use.
• Clean affected area before use. Make sure to dry well.
• Use a rubber glove to apply ointment. This prevents spread of infection.
• Apply a thin layer to the affected area and rub in gently.

How long does this medicine take to work?

• Your child may start feeling better several days after starting this medicine.

What do I do if my child misses a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)

• Apply a missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your child's regular schedule.
• Do not apply a double dose or extra doses.

What safety measures should I take while my child is using this medicine?

• Check your child's medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.

What are some possible side effects of this medicine?

• Skin irritation.

What should I monitor?

• Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?
• For the occurrence of side effects.

When should I call my child's healthcare provider?

• If any of this information causes you to be concerned, any of the common side effects occur, or if your child's symptoms do not improve after taking this medicine.
• If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center or emergency department immediately.
• If your child shows signs of a life-threatening reaction, call healthcare provider or emergency department immediately. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or if your child exhibits any other unusual behavior.
• If your child has severe skin irritation.
• If your child develops a rash.
• No improvement in condition or if you believe your child's condition is worse.

How should I store and/or dispose of this medicine?

• Store at room temperature.

General statements

• If your child has a life-threatening allergy, he/she should wear an allergy identification bracelet at all times.
• This medicine is available by prescription only. If there are refills, contact your pharmacy. If no refills remain, you may need to contact your child's healthcare provider.
• This medicine should be thrown out when your child no longer needs it or if the medicine becomes outdated.
• Most medicines can be thrown away in household trash after mixing with coffee grounds or kitty litter and sealing in a plastic bag.
• Do not share your child's medicine with others and do not give anyone else's medicine to your child.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
• Many medications interact with other medications. Keep a list of all your child's medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to your child's healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
• Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or in Canada to Health Canada's Canada Vigilance Program at 1-866-234-2345.
• Talk with your child's healthcare provider before giving him/her any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.
• Medicine can be dangerous if used incorrectly. Follow directions given by healthcare provider.

Copyright © 1978- Lexi-Comp Inc., The Children's Hospital, Denver, CO., and Pediatric Pharmacy Advocacy Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved. This information is protected under US and international copyright law. Unauthorized use or reproduction is prohibited.