Possible uses of Acyclovir
Acyclovir is an antiviral used to treat shingles, chickenpox, or genital herpes. It may also be used to treat other conditions.

How to Use Acyclovir
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Take this medicine with food or milk if it upsets your stomach. Store this medicine at room temperature, away from light and moisture. To clean up your infection completely, continue taking this medicine for the full course of treatment even if you feel better in a few days. Do not miss any doses. If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Acyclovir Side Effects
Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or headache. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Precautions
If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they become worse, check with your doctor. If you are using this medicine for genital herpes, begin using it as soon as you notice symptoms (pain, burning, blisters) of an infection. Use a condom during sexual intercourse. If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. If you are or may be pregnant, check with your doctor for instructions on using this medicine during pregnancy. Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. This medicine is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeing while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Drug Interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job.

Missed Dose
Try to take each dose at the scheduled time. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Notes: This medication is most effective if it is started within 48 hours of when the rash first appears.