Virux 200 mg

Description

Indications
Aciclovir is indicated for:

• The treatment of viral infections caused by Herpes simplex virus (type I & II) and Varicella zoster virus (herpes zoster & chickenpox).
• The treatment of Herpes simplex virus infections of the skin and mucous membranes, including initial and recurrent genital herpes and herpes labialis.
• The prophylaxis of Herpes simplex infections in immunocompromised patients.

• Please take the medication as per the advice of a registered doctor.*

Pharmacology
Aciclovir is a synthetic purine derivative. It exerts its antiviral effect on Herpes simplex virus (HSV) and Varicella-zoster virus by interfering with DNA synthesis and inhibiting viral replication. In cells infected with herpes virus, Aciclovir’s antiviral activity depends on its conversion to Aciclovir Triphosphate. Aciclovir is initially converted to Aciclovir Monophosphate via virus-coded thymidine kinase; it is then phosphorylated to the diphosphate via cellular guanylate kinase and further converted into the triphosphate, which is the active form. Around 15-30% of an oral dose is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations occur 1.5-2 hours after administration. It is widely distributed into body tissues, including the brain, saliva, lungs, liver, muscle, spleen, uterus, vaginal mucosa, CSF, and herpetic vesicular fluid. It is excreted via the kidneys.

Dosage & Administration

• Treatment of initial herpes simplex: 200 mg 5 times daily for 5 days.
• For immunocompromised patients:
  • Adults: 400 mg 5 times daily for 5 days (can be extended if healing is incomplete).
  • Children under 2 years: Half of the adult dose.
  • Children over 2 years: Adult dose.
• Prevention of recurrence of herpes simplex:
  • Adults: 200 mg 4 times daily or 400 mg twice daily.
  • Children under 2 years: Half of the adult dose.
  • Children over 2 years: Adult dose.
• Treatment of varicella (chickenpox):
  • Adults & children over 40 kg: 800 mg 4 times daily for 5 days.
  • Children below 40 kg: 20 mg/kg per dose (maximum 800 mg) for 5 days.
• Treatment of herpes zoster (Shingles): 800 mg 5 times daily for 7 days.
• Treatment of initial rectal herpes infections: 400 mg 5 times daily for 10 days or until clinical resolution.

For renal impairment, dose adjustment is recommended.

• Please take the medication as per the advice of a registered doctor.*

Interaction
Probenecid reduces Aciclovir excretion, increasing plasma concentration and the risk of toxicity.

Contraindications
Aciclovir is contraindicated in patients known to be hypersensitive to Aciclovir.

Side Effects
Rash, gastrointestinal disturbances, rise in bilirubin and liver-related enzymes, increase in blood urea and creatinine, decrease in hematological indices, headache, neurological reactions, and fatigue.

Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Aciclovir should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother.

Precautions & Warnings
Aciclovir should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment. Doses should be adjusted according to creatinine clearance. Monitor neutrophil count at least twice weekly in neonates.

Therapeutic Class
Herpes simplex & Varicella-zoster virus infections

Storage Conditions
Store below 25°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.