Virux 200 mg/5 ml

Description

Indications
Aciclovir is indicated for:

• Treatment of viral infections due to Herpes simplex virus (type I & II) and Varicella zoster virus (herpes zoster & chickenpox).
• Treatment of Herpes simplex virus infections of the skin and mucous membranes, including initial and recurrent genital herpes and herpes labialis.
• Prophylaxis of Herpes simplex infections in immunocompromised patients.

Take the medication as per the advice of a registered doctor.

Pharmacology
Aciclovir is a synthetic purine derivative that exerts its antiviral effect on Herpes simplex virus (HSV) and Varicella-zoster virus by interfering with DNA synthesis and inhibiting viral replication. The drug is converted intracellularly to the active form, Aciclovir Triphosphate, via viral thymidine kinase and cellular enzymes. The triphosphate inhibits viral DNA replication by:

• Competitive inhibition of viral DNA polymerase
• Incorporation into and termination of the growing viral DNA chain
• Inactivation of the viral DNA polymerase
  Aciclovir is absorbed 15-30% from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1.5-2 hours of oral administration. It is widely distributed in body tissues and fluids and excreted by the kidneys through glomerular filtration and tubular secretion.

Dosage & Administration

• Initial herpes simplex: 200 mg 5 times daily for 5 days.
• Immunocompromised patients:
  • Adult: 400 mg 5 times daily for 5 days (increase to 800 mg 5 times daily for genital herpes in immunocompromised patients).
  • Children under 2 years: Half of the adult dose.
  • Children over 2 years: Adult dose.
• Prevention of recurrence of herpes simplex:
  • Adult: 200 mg 4 times daily or 400 mg twice daily (reduced to 200 mg 2 or 3 times daily every 6-12 months).
  • Children under 2 years: Half of the adult dose.
  • Children over 2 years: Adult dose.
• Herpes simplex prophylaxis in immunocompromised patients: 200 to 400 mg 4 times daily.
• Chickenpox:
  • Adult and children over 40 kg: 800 mg 4 times daily for 5 days.
  • Children below 40 kg: 20 mg/kg (max 800 mg) per dose orally 4 times daily for 5 days.
  • Children 1 month-2 years: 200 mg 4 times daily for 5 days.
  • Children 2-5 years: 400 mg 4 times daily for 5 days.
  • Children 6-12 years: 800 mg 4 times daily for 5 days.
• Herpes zoster (Shingles): 800 mg 5 times daily for 7 days.
• Rectal herpes (Proctitis): 400 mg 5 times daily for 10 days or until clinical resolution.
• Renal Impairment: Dose reduction is recommended for severe renal impairment.

Take the medication as per the advice of a registered doctor.

Interaction

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

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

Side Effects

• Rash
• Gastrointestinal disturbances
• Increased bilirubin and liver enzyme levels
• Increased blood urea and creatinine
• Decreased hematological indices
• Headache
• Neurological reactions
• Fatigue

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy Category B: Aciclovir should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
• Caution is advised when administered to a nursing mother.

Precautions & Warnings

• Administer with caution in patients with renal impairment; adjust doses 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, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.