Which acyclovir is better

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Which manufacturer of Acyclovir is better?

Manufacturers of Acyclovir are represented by both foreign and domestic pharmaceutical companies. The pharmacological action of medications is aimed at achieving one goal - blocking the viral DNA chain and eliminating herpes and all its clinical manifestations.

Table of contents:

But the effectiveness and pricing policy of the drug is somewhat different for all manufacturers. In the materials of the presented review, we will briefly consider Acyclovir, produced in Switzerland, Croatia and Russia.

Acyclovir Sandoz (Switzerland)

The Swiss pharmaceutical company produces the drug Acyclovir Sandoz in the form of a 5% ointment and cream of the same concentration, as well as in tablet form. You can buy this drug either through a network of retail pharmacies or order it online with free home delivery.

The average cost of cream varies from 80 to 150 rubles. The ointment can be purchased in rubles. The ointment is available in aluminum tubes of 5 and 2 grams. Tablets in a cardboard package of 25 pieces, each of which contains 200 mg of active acyclovir.

Acyclovir Belupo

The country of origin of Acyclovir Belupo is Croatia. Release form: tablets, ointment and cream. The tableted drug is produced in cardboard packages of 20 and 30 pieces. One dragee may contain 200 or 400 mg of the active ingredient.

Ointments and cream each contain 50 mg of active substance and are available in aluminum tubes of 3, 5, 10 and 30 grams.

The pricing policy for the tableted drug varies from 300 to 360 rubles. The ointment can be purchased for rubles, and the cream for 50 to 60 rubles.

Acyclovir Akos and Acyclovir-Akrikhin

The manufacturers of the drug Acyclovir Akos and its analog Acyclovir-Akrikhin represent the largest network of pharmaceutical companies in Russia - CJSC Vertex and OJSC Sintez.

Acyclovir Akos tablets can be purchased at the pharmacy for rubles, but Acyclovir Akrikhin costs a little more. With a concentration of 200 mg, this medicine can be purchased in rubles, and with a concentration of 400 mg, in rubles.

Similarities and differences between different manufacturers

The release form, composition, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, indications for use and contraindications for this drug from different manufacturers are the same. The difference lies in the name of each drug, pricing policy and the end result.

According to reviews from real users, Acyclovir AKOS, which is produced by Vertex CJSC (Russia), is different:

  • low level of efficiency;
  • practically does not help get rid of herpetic eruptions on the red border of the lips and skin;
  • does not help accelerate the regeneration processes of affected tissues.

But Acyclovir Akrikhin from the AKRIKHIN chemical and pharmaceutical plant in the city of Kurgan has a completely different effect. When applied to the affected area after the first signs of itching, all clinical manifestations of herpetic pathology disappear within 24 hours. And when used during a rash that has already appeared, the lesions immediately begin to heal and already on the second day they become covered with a crust, under which the skin quickly recovers.

Acyclovir Belupo and Sandoz are also highly effective in the treatment of herpetic pathologies; it is important to follow all recommendations for use specified in the attached instructions; the pricing policy of these drugs is several times higher than domestic Acyclovir.

Therefore, in order to answer the question of which manufacturer of Acyclovir is better, you need to understand by what criteria to consider this drug. If we take into account only the pricing policy, then the most budget option would be Acyclovir AKOS, but if we consider the level of effectiveness, then it is better to take a closer look at foreign manufacturers of the drug.

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IMPORTANT. The information on the site is provided for informational purposes only. Do not self-medicate. At the first sign of disease, consult a doctor.

Source: http://pillsman.org/25258-proizvoditeli-aciklovir.html

Acyclovir is a powerful word in antiviral therapy

The creation of Acyclovir was perceived in the medical world as a new era in the treatment of viral diseases. Due to its high selectivity along with low toxicity, Acyclovir has become one of the most popular antiviral drugs.

Before you continue reading: If you are looking for an effective method of getting rid of a runny nose, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis or colds, then be sure to look at this section of the site after reading this article. This information has helped so many people, we hope it will help you too! So, now back to the article.

In the 21st century, Acyclovir marked the beginning of a whole group of drugs that successfully cope with viruses. Despite the fact that current competitors have some advantages over Acyclovir, the parent drug is still widely used.

Acyclovir's popularity is undoubtedly enhanced by the fact that external dosage forms are sold without a prescription. Belonging to the OTC group (from the English expression Over the Counterе - over the counter) once again proves the high safety of the medicine.

Let's try to figure out how Acyclovir works and how effective different dosage forms of this drug are.

The drug comes from the sea

Few people know that the active substance Acyclovir is of natural origin. The basis for the synthesis of the drug was nucleosides isolated from the Caribbean sponge Cryptotethya Crypta, living in the Caribbean Sea.

Interestingly, substances were isolated from the same Caribbean sponge that were used to synthesize some anticancer drugs. But let's return to our antiviral medicine.

The inventor of Acyclovir is considered to be the American scientist Schaffer, who patented a new medicine for herpes in 1979. Another American, pharmacologist Elion, played a major role in studying the drug. In 1988, the researcher was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine, including for the study of Acyclovir.

Composition and release forms of Acyclovir

The active ingredient of the drug with the trade name “Acyclovir”, as well as its numerous analogues, is acyclovir.

The drug is available in a variety of dosage forms.

External dosage forms

  • Acyclovir eye ointment with a concentration of 3%;
  • Cream, active ingredient concentration 5%;
  • Acyclovir ointment 5%.

Note that different manufacturers produce ointment weighing 5, 10, 15 grams.

Some cosmetics manufacturers produce lipsticks containing Acyclovir. Such products are not classified as drugs, although they still have some antiviral effects.

Oral, that is, tablet dosage forms

Parenteral (injection) dosage forms

  • Acyclovir powder for injection 250 mg.

The parenteral form is used to treat severe viral infections. As a rule, such pathologies require inpatient treatment, so outpatients usually do not encounter the injection form of release.

Acyclovir cream and ointment - is there a difference?

When purchasing topical Acyclovir, some patients face a dilemma. The fact is that the drug is produced in two external dosage forms at once, the difference between which is sometimes difficult for even pharmacists to clearly explain.

Therefore, it’s probably time to explain how the cream differs from the ointment. So, the main difference between these two dosage forms is the base.

In anticipation of readers' questions, we immediately note that the base is a pharmacologically inert substance, which is necessary for the uniform and stable distribution of the medicinal substance. That is, the base of the ointment, cream or liniment is devoid of pharmacological effect.

The basis of the ointment is fatty substances, for example, lanolin, petroleum jelly and other components. Creams contain a much smaller amount of fatty substances, so the cream is sometimes called a “soft” ointment. Due to the different content of fatty components in cream and ointment, these dosage forms differ in pharmacokinetics, that is, the rate of absorption and distribution.

Thus, ointments are absorbed slowly and can remain on the skin for quite a long time, distributing gradually. Creams are absorbed quickly, leaving no greasy marks on the skin and clothes.

When choosing between Acyclovir cream and ointment, it is worth assessing the surface on which you will apply the drug. For the treatment of open inflamed elements, it is usually preferable to use an ointment. It will perform two functions at once: antiviral and moisturizing, preventing damage to the healing elements.

If the rashes are located on areas of the body that come into contact with clothing, you should use a non-greasy cream.

Pharmacological action of Acyclovir: explanation of instructions

It is no secret that often the stumbling block in the instructions for a medicine is the clause on pharmacological action, and Acyclovir is no exception to the rule. It can be difficult for the average patient to understand the numerous terms that describe complex biochemical processes. Let's try to explain how the drug works.

So, the medicine first penetrates the blood, after which it enters the cells affected by the virus. Viruses sensitive to Acyclovir produce their own special enzyme that ensures vital activity - thymidine kinase. Under the action of the enzyme, the drug undergoes a slight chemical transformation, turning into Acyclovir phosphate.

In this transformed form, the new substance can be integrated into the viral DNA chain. Having made his way into the very lair of the enemy, Acyclovir conducts subversive activities there, which, as a rule, ends in victory. The drug, which contains DNA, blocks further synthesis of the main molecule of the virus, which provides its genetic program.

Thus, Acyclovir stops further replication (multiplication) of sensitive viruses.

Activity spectrum of Acyclovir

Among the viruses sensitive to the action of the drug are species from the herpesvirus family. Let's try to list them in descending order of sensitivity to Acyclovir: herpes simplex virus type I (HSV-1), type II (HSV-2), varicella zoster virus, Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus (CMV).

Resistance to Acyclovir is quite rare. Most often, drug resistance is observed in immunocompromised patients. You should not unfoundedly classify yourself in this category if you have recurrent herpes relapses three times a year. Or you get sick from every draft.

As a rule, immunocompetent patients include people who have had an organ or bone marrow transplant, are HIV-infected, or are taking special medications that suppress the immune system.

In cases of severe immunodeficiency, viruses produce very small amounts of thymidine kinase. As a result, the entire biochemical chain that ensures the pharmacological activity of Acyclovir is disrupted, and the drug simply does not work.

Herpes viruses are everywhere, or where does this nasty herpes come from?

About 60% of the world's population is infected with the herpes virus. As a rule, we become infected with the herpes simplex virus type 1, which causes cold sores, in childhood. HSV type 2, responsible for a rather serious disease, genital herpes, is transmitted mainly through sexual contact. Therefore, the total number of people infected with HSV-2 is not so impressive.

Other pests of the herpesvirus family are also widespread. The same 60% of the population is infected with cytomegalovirus, despite the fact that the mode of transmission is usually sexual.

The leader in these statistics is undoubtedly the chickenpox virus with the beautiful Latin name Varicella zoster. After all, almost 100% of children suffer from common childhood chickenpox. And after recovery, the smallpox virus enters the nerve ganglia, where it continues to “sleep” throughout our lives. So it turns out that every first person on the planet is infected with the chickenpox virus.

Decreased immunity as the first step to activation of herpes

However, despite this frightening ubiquity, the situation is not so sad. In most cases, the immune system independently copes with herpes viruses, which persist in a latent, that is, inactive state.

But when immunity decreases, viruses can quickly become active, and then we may need treatment with Acyclovir.

When does this happen? Immunosuppression may be due to:

For example, hormonal changes in adolescents, pregnancy or breastfeeding are accompanied by some decrease in immunity.

It is known that minor immunosuppression affects young children and the elderly.

- pathological reasons, namely:

  • condition after organ or bone marrow transplantation;
  • HIV infection;
  • uncontrolled diabetes mellitus;
  • malignant neoplasms.

- use of drugs that reduce immunity (immunosuppressants).

As a rule, such drugs are taken after organ or bone marrow transplantation, as well as in the treatment of cancer.

In healthy adults, immunity may be temporarily reduced by:

  • poor quality nutrition;
  • stress;
  • hard physical labor;
  • hypothermia and exposure to other adverse factors.

So, in general, there are plenty of opportunities for the activation of herpes viruses. Let's look separately at the use of Acyclovir as an effective antiviral agent for each specific disease.

Acyclovir for the treatment of herpes simplex of the mucous membranes, eyes and systemic herpes

Herpes of the mucous membranes, especially recurrent ones, is a fairly common disease that causes a lot of trouble. Note that sometimes stomatitis and gingivitis - inflammation of the oral mucosa and gums - are also caused by activation of HSV-1. Usually, for mild herpes of the mucous membranes, external Acyclovir ointment or cream is sufficient.

In case of pathology of moderate severity, as a rule, oral therapy with Acyclovir in the form of tablets with a dosage of 200 or 400 mg is added to external dosage forms.

Severe forms of herpes, including systemic herpes, which develops with severe immunosuppression, are treated in hospitals using injectable Acyclovir.

Acyclovir tablets and eye ointment are used to treat keratitis (inflammation of the cornea) associated with the herpes simplex virus in HIV-infected patients.

In addition, tablet dosage forms are used to prevent relapses of ophthalmic diseases caused by HSV in immunocompetent adults and children over 12 years of age. As a rule, the drug is indicated for patients with a history of herpetic blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), conjunctivitis, keratitis or iritis (inflammation of the iris) within the previous 12 months.

According to standard protocols for the treatment of HSV, Acyclovir is considered the drug of choice for the treatment of herpes encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).

In pediatrics, the medicine is used as a first-line treatment for congenital herpes in newborns. Manifestations of the disease include lesions of the eyes, skin and oral mucosa, as well as disseminated, that is, widespread infection.

Acyclovir: a treatment for genital herpes

Labial herpes, which affects the paranasal area, will seem like a minor nuisance compared to the manifestations of genital herpes. The classic symptom of the disease is the appearance of small itchy rashes on the mucous membrane of the genitals and anus, the elements of which contain a colorless liquid.

Treatment of genital herpes usually includes a serious regimen aimed at improving the immune status in general and at combating type 2 HSV. Adequate therapy can reduce the number of relapses of the disease to a minimum. Unfortunately, no doctor can guarantee that the manifestations of genital herpes will leave you forever.

So, Acyclovir tablets are used to treat all stages of the disease, from the initial stages to chronic recurrent infection, namely:

— initial episodes of genital herpes in adults and adolescents, including HIV-infected people;

- initial episodes of genital herpes, manifested in the form of proctitis (inflammation of the rectum);

- repeated episodes of genital herpes in adults and adolescents.

Many experts recommend as the drugs of choice not only tableted Acyclovir, but also its derivatives - tablets Famciclovir and Valacyclovir.

Acyclovir for chickenpox

Mild chickenpox usually does not require any specific drug therapy. Even creative daily drawings on the body, which many adults love so much and all children hate so much, rather serve as a sedative for parents. After all, almost every first mother and every second father cannot look calmly at the “torment” of a child covered with a thick rash, frantically scratching his colorful pimples.

So parents draw intricate patterns every morning. Moreover, the color of these arts can be brilliant green, if brilliant green is used as paint, or poisonous crimson, when the doctor prefers fucorcin. And the child, by the way, recovers completely independently, and the outcome of the disease is predetermined - chickenpox is doomed from the very beginning.

Therefore, if the doctor prescribed Acyclovir to your child for simple, mild chickenpox, you should think about it. The need to use any antiviral drugs or its derivatives in immunocompetent, that is, generally healthy children and adolescents, is highly questionable.

However, in some cases, the course of chickenpox still requires special attention from an infectious disease doctor. As a rule, the average degree of the disease is recorded in weakened children. Cases of chickenpox in adults are almost always a severe infection, which is often treated in hospitals using modern antiviral drugs.

So, Acyclovir is a first-line drug for the treatment of chickenpox in:

  • children and adolescents with weakened immune systems;
  • adults;
  • HIV-infected patients.

Hello from childhood: herpes zoster

Few people know that both chickenpox and shingles are caused by the same varicella zoster virus, Varicella zoster. The virus, which persists in the nerve ganglia after chickenpox in childhood, can make itself known again after 40–60 years.

Most often, herpes zoster, or shingles, develops in older people over the age of 60. Despite the fact that the disease, like chickenpox, goes away on its own, infectious disease specialists prefer to use antiviral and immunomodulatory therapy. You may ask, why take extra medications?

The fact is that drug treatment of herpes zoster minimizes the possibility of complications, which can be quite serious, including muscle paralysis. In addition, antiviral therapy promotes rapid recovery, as well as a decrease in the severity of the clinical manifestations of the disease.

Acyclovir is the drug of choice for severe or widespread cases of herpes zoster in immunocompetent adults and in HIV-infected patients. In addition, Acyclovir is widely used for the treatment of herpes zoster in adults and children with a normal immune response, as well as in weakened patients.

Infectious mononucleosis

Despite data on the activity of Acyclovir against the causative agent of infectious mononculosis, the Epstein-Barr virus, the drug is rarely used to treat this disease.

This is due to the fact that the Epstein-Barr virus is eliminated on its own and usually does not require any specific treatment.

Information about the effectiveness of Acyclovir therapy for uncomplicated, severe or chronic infectious mononucleosis, as well as other manifestations of viral carriage (for example, oral hairy leukoplakia) is very contradictory.

Does acyclovir help with cytomegalovirus infection?

The prevalence of cytomegalovirus is eloquently demonstrated by data provided by the World Health Organization. They claim that 90% of the world's population over the age of 80 has serological evidence of infection. That is, if we live to such an advanced age, then CMV infection is almost inevitable.

And there's nothing wrong with that. After all, the disease, like other infections caused by herpes viruses, usually occurs latently, that is, without clinical manifestations. And it doesn't cause us any trouble.

Cytomegalovirus infection is dangerous if a pregnant woman becomes infected with it for the first time, especially in the early stages of pregnancy. Then the virus infects the fetus, and this is fraught with the development of various defects in the child.

In addition, CMV, safely kept from activation by our immune system, can wake up if the immune system fails. In this case, the disease can develop rapidly and requires correct treatment.

It is difficult to answer the question whether Acyclovir helps with active CMV infection. But it is definitely ineffective for current active disease.

However, Acyclovir is indicated for the prevention of cytomegalovirus infection in patients after organ or red bone marrow transplantation. However, in practice, more powerful derivatives of the drug are more often used; in particular, Ganciclovir is the drug of choice.

Acyclovir cream and ointment - how to use?

External dosage forms of Acyclovir are considered very safe. And first of all, this is due to the fact that the medicine, when applied to the skin or mucous membranes, is practically not absorbed into the blood. And, therefore, it does not enter the body and does not have a systemic effect.

There is one rule for using external forms of the drug for both children and adults. A cream or ointment containing 5% Acyclovir is applied to the affected areas five times during the day at regular intervals.

I would like to note that the effectiveness of the ointment or cream does not depend at all on what layer you apply the medicine. An opinion based on a direct relationship between the thickness of the ointment layer and its effectiveness does not stand up to criticism. After all, our skin is not a bottomless barrel. Only a strictly defined amount of the active substance is absorbed into the dermis.

Therefore, pharmacists warn that the cream or ointment should be applied to the affected areas of the skin in a thin layer.

I would like to note that external forms of Acyclovir - cream and ointment, including ophthalmic, intended for the treatment of herpetic keratitis and blepharitis, are sold without a doctor's prescription. OTC drugs sold in the public domain also include external preparations of Acyclovir derivatives. Among the most effective and popular external antiviral agents, we note the drug containing Penciclovir - Fenistil Pencivir.

Acyclovir tablets: pharmacokinetic data

Tablet forms of any medicine are not as safe as external ones. This is understandable: after all, the drug enters the intestines, where it is absorbed into the blood.

This axiom fully applies to Acyclovir. Therefore, unlike ointments or creams, you will need a doctor's prescription to purchase tablets. Note that only the doctor and no one else should write down the regimen for using the medicine.

Acyclovir tablets have a fairly low bioavailability, which is only 15–30%. However, the drug penetrates perfectly into the organs and biological fluids of the body. Note that neither the blood-brain nor the placental barrier is an obstacle to the active substance. This means that when taken orally, Acyclovir penetrates into the cerebrospinal fluid, into the circulatory system of the fetus, and into breast milk.

I would like to note that during treatment with Acyclovir you can take it at any time, regardless of meals. The medicine is absorbed at the same rate regardless of whether you drink it on an empty stomach or after a heavy dinner.

Acyclovir tablets: standard dosages for children

The treatment regimen with Acyclovir depends on the specific disease. So, let's figure out how to dose Acyclovir for children with herpes virus infection.

Labial herpes (lesions of the perioral area)

For children with weakened immune systems, it is recommended to use 1 gram of Acyclovir per day, divided into 3-5 doses, at regular intervals. The course of treatment depends on the severity of the infection and usually lasts 7–14 days.

Herpetic gingivostomatitis (damage to the oral mucosa and gums)

For HIV-infected children with severe gingivostomatitis, a dosage of 20 mg of Acyclovir per kilogram of body weight is recommended three times a day, the duration of treatment is from 7 to 14 days. The maximum dosage of the drug according to the instructions is 400 mg of Acyclovir per day.

The dosage is slightly lower for immunocompetent, that is, generally healthy children: 15 mg per kilogram of body weight per day. Moreover, the frequency of use is five times a day, and the course of treatment for stomatitis or gingivitis with Acyclovir is a week.

I would like to note that stomatitis and gingivitis are not always of a viral nature. Often the disease is caused by bacteria or fungi. Therefore, taking Acyclovir without a doctor’s recommendation is a big mistake, possibly delaying recovery.

Prevention of recurrence of herpetic ophthalmic infections

For periodically recurring episodes of herpetic blepharitis, keratitis, iritis in children over 12 years of age, it is recommended to take 400 mg of Acyclovir twice a day. In some cases, doctors prefer to dose 80 mg per kilogram of body weight, divided into three doses.

The optimal course of treatment is still unclear. Most often, treatment is long-term and lasts 12–18 months.

For immunocompetent children over two years of age, the therapeutic dose of Acyclovir is 20 mg per kilogram of body weight four times a day. The course of treatment is short - only five days.

For children weighing more than 40 kg, it is recommended to take 800 mg of Acyclovir four times a day, again for 5 days.

Treatment of chickenpox with Acyclovir is most effective if it begins simultaneously with the first early symptoms of the disease (within 24 hours after the appearance of the rash).

Treatment should begin within 48 hours after the initial rash.

Immunocompetent children over 12 years of age are recommended to take Acyclovir 800 mg tablets five times a day for 5–10 days.

Acyclovir dosage for adults

Just as in the treatment of children, for herpetic infections in adults, the course of Acyclovir therapy depends on the disease.

Herpetic rashes on the skin and mucous membranes

When the elements of the rash are localized on the mucous membranes of the mouth and skin, the dosage is 400 mg of Acyclovir every four hours (that is, five times a day). The course of treatment is one to two weeks.

The treatment regimen for the most common manifestation of herpes - on the lips and perioral area - is very simple. You can reduce the intensity of the rash and speed up its healing by taking 400 mg of Acyclovir five times a day. The average course of treatment is five days.

Herpetic keratitis and other ophthalmic manifestations

Treatment of ophthalmic manifestations includes the use of 400 mg of Acyclovir five times daily. The peculiarity of the therapeutic course is its duration, which is very important for preventing relapses.

Prevention of eye infections includes the use of 400 mg of Acyclovir twice daily for 12–18 months.

— Treatment of the first episode.

According to the manufacturer's recommendations, the course of treatment for newly appeared rashes is 200 mg of Acyclovir every four hours (five times a day) for 10 days.

However, most experts adhere to an alternative regimen - 400 mg three times a day or 200 mg five times a day for 7-10 days. If symptoms persist at the end of the course, treatment with Acyclovir can be continued.

- Treatment of recurrent episodes.

According to the instructions for use of oral Acyclovir, the course of treatment is 400 mg three times a day or 800 mg twice a day for 3–5 days.

The sooner treatment for recurrent genital herpes is started, the higher the effectiveness of therapy. Therefore, Acyclovir should be taken immediately after the first signs of relapse appear.

The dosage of Acyclovir for chickenpox in adults is 20 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, divided into 4 doses. The course of treatment is five days. The effectiveness of therapy depends on early initiation of treatment. Therefore, when the first signs of chickenpox appear, you should start taking Acyclovir.

The dosage of Acyclovir for herpes zoster is 800 mg every four hours for 7-10 days. Treatment should begin within the first 48 hours after the rash appears.

When should you not use Acyclovir?

Contraindications to the use of Acyclovir cream and ointment:

We have already mentioned that external dosage forms have a high level of safety. This is also confirmed by the fact that there are simply no contraindications to the use of Acyclovir cream or ointment. Of course, except for one thing:

1. the presence of individual sensitivity to Acyclovir.

As a rule, an individual reaction is highly unlikely. If you have never experienced an allergy (for example, allergic rhinitis and other symptoms) to medications, as well as petroleum jelly, lanolin and other components of ointments, then you can safely use topical Acyclovir.

Contraindications to the use of Acyclovir tablets:

2. breastfeeding period.

It has been proven that the drug penetrates perfectly into breast milk. Therefore, it is better to avoid using Acyclovir tablets during lactation.

3. individual hypersensitivity.

The chance of an allergic reaction is less than 1%.

Can Acyclovir be used during pregnancy?

The effect of Acyclovir on pregnancy in humans has not been sufficiently studied. The lack of full-fledged studies is not due to the omission of the manufacturer, but to the ethical component of such tests. However, experiments on animals confirmed the absence of a negative effect of Acyclovir on the fetus.

In addition, post-marketing trials also did not reveal any negative effects of this drug on pregnancy. Therefore, to the question whether it is possible to be treated with Acyclovir during pregnancy, we will answer this way: the drug belongs to category B and can be used under the supervision of a doctor.

Adverse events during treatment with Acyclovir: what to expect?

Side effects of external forms of Acyclovir

  • local reaction.

It is very short-lived and manifests itself as redness, itching or tingling in the areas of application. Goes away on its own within a few minutes;

Possible in less than 0.1% of cases in sensitized, that is, sensitive patients.

Side effects of Acyclovir tablets and injections

very often (more than 12% of cases)

often (1-10% of cases)

The likelihood of nausea is much higher with long-term treatment with high doses of Acyclovir;

  • vomiting (less than 3% of patients).

    If vomiting occurs, you should notify your doctor. You may have to switch to parenteral use of Acyclovir;

  • diarrhea (2-3% of cases).

    An adequate response to stool disorders is the addition of antidiarrheal drugs containing loperamide to the treatment regimen;

  • headache (2% of cases).

    The use of analgesics can neutralize this adverse effect.

    • rare (less than 1% of cases)

    Acyclovir analogues: what to choose?

    In any, even the most seedy pharmacy, you can easily find several analogues of Acyclovir. Large chain pharmacies can provide you with dozens of generics. Interestingly, the price of different analogues can fluctuate by two times or even more.

    Let's try to list the most common analogues of Acyclovir:

    1. Zovirax is the highest quality and most expensive drug produced by Glaxo. Zovirax is available as ophthalmic ointment, 5% cream or tablets containing 200 mg Acyclovir. In addition, the drug is available in powder form for injection.

    Reviews from doctors indicate that Zovirax is one of the most effective analogues of Acyclovir.

    2. Virolex is also a very high-quality and quite expensive generic of Acyclovir produced by the Slovak company KRKA. There are eye ointment, cream and 200 mg tablets.

    3. Acyclovir-Hexal is a more affordable option produced by the German company Hexal. Sold as a 5% cream.

    4. Acyclovir-Akos produced by the Russian company Synthesis is presented in the form of 5% ointment and 200 mg tablets.

    5. Acyclovir Akri, which is produced by the Russian association Akrikhin, is available in the form of 5% ointment and tablets of 200 and 400 mg.

    6. The “Forte” version produced by the Obolenskoye company is tablets containing 400 mg of Acyclovir.

    Let us note that traditionally Russian-made drugs are distinguished by fairly high quality and affordable prices.

    And finally, let us remind you: both external and internal forms of Acyclovir should be stored in a dark place at room temperature.

    The article above and comments written by readers are for informational purposes only and do not encourage self-medication. Consult a specialist regarding your own symptoms and illnesses. When taking any medicine, you should always use the instructions that come with the medicine and your doctor's advice as a guide.

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    It is also worth paying attention to other medications:

    I have been on high doses of Acyclovir for 2 months for EBV and at least henna.

    Acyclovir in the form of ointment/cream helped me well with episodes of genital herpes. The pain and itching subsided before our eyes.

    For a secondary bacterial infection, I sprinkled it with streptocide powder. I just crushed a streptocide tablet.

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    What are the differences between Valacyclovir and Acyclovir?

    The drugs Famvir, Valtrex, Valaciclovir, and Acyclovir are part of the complex therapy of herpes viruses of all genotypes and severity. This viral infection is considered incurable and if infected, the pathogenic microorganism remains forever in the cells of the sick person. Medications make it possible to minimize the pathogenic activity of a viral infection, remove the dermatological consequences of its presence and prevent relapses of the disease in the event of a sharp decrease in the patient’s immunity. Let us consider in more detail the qualitative advantages of each of these drugs, their distinctive characteristics, pros and cons.

    For what diseases are they used?

    Acyclovir, Famvir, Valtrex, and Valacyclovir are used as antiviral agents for the treatment and prevention of herpes virus infection. The most effective medications are against herpes infections, which have DNA genotypes 1-6.

    In practical dermatology, specialists actively use medications in this category for the treatment of oral, chickenpox (shingles) and genital herpes. In general, all these drugs are created for the treatment of the following types of diseases:

    1. Labial herpes. It is believed that at least 96% of the population of planet Earth are carriers of this genotype of the viral infection. This is the most common type of dermatological disease, which manifests itself as a red rash on the surface of the lips and skin around the mouth.
    2. Genital herpes. It is provoked by herpes infection genotype No. 2. Medicines reduce the manifestation of characteristic symptoms, stop the further spread of the rash in the intimate area, remove itching, swelling and the inflammatory process. All of these drugs can be used as prophylactic agents to prevent infection with genital herpes if unprotected sexual contact occurs between a carrier of the infection and a healthy sexual partner.
    3. Shingles. In fact, this dermatological disease has nothing to do with traditional round lichen, as it is provoked by a completely different type of infection. The culprit of the disease is a herpes virus with a third DNA genotype. Taking medications from this group reduces pain, prevents the development of relapses, and is an effective means of preventing the development of postherpetic neuralgia. The latter pathology is considered a serious complication of a herpetic infection and is difficult to treat conservatively, since it affects nerve endings and makes it impossible for the stable transmission of neural impulses from the centers of the brain to the muscle fibers.

    During the acute phase of the disease, both Famvir and Valtrex, Valaciclovir and Acyclovir help to alleviate the patient’s general well-being, reduce body temperature, localize skin rashes and preserve healthy areas of the skin. In case of primary infection with any genotype of herpes, medications make it possible to avoid complications and speed up the recovery process several times. When using loading doses of these medications in the first 3 days of the onset of symptoms of a herpetic infection, it is possible to prevent the long-term presence of such signs of skin pathology as itching, burning, pain and redness of the epithelial layer.

    Release forms and cost of antibiotic drugs

    These rotiviral drugs are produced in the following pharmacological forms.

    Acyclovir

    It is a synthetic analogue of purine nucleoside. Belongs to the category of drugs that have a selective effect exclusively on pathogenic herpes viruses. Available in tablet form. The total mass of the active substance is 200 mg. One cassette contains 10 tablets. The packaging of the drug is made of thick cardboard.

    The cost of one cassette ranges from 29 to 35 rubles. The price range is determined by retail pharmacy chains that sell the medicine.

    Famvir

    Produced by the Swiss pharmaceutical company Novartis Pharma. The drug is produced in the form of tablets, which are coated with a protective coating. Depending on the dosage prescribed to the patient, it is possible to select a medication with a total mass of active substances of 125, 250 and 500 mg in 1 tablet. One blister contains 10 tablets at once. All of them are placed in a thick cardboard package, which contains 4 plates of medicine. The cost of the antiviral drug starts from 1,300 rubles per package. The highest price was recorded around 1,550 rubles. The high cost of the medicine is justified by its imported origin.

    Valtrex

    Manufactured in the UK by Glaxo Smith Klein. The antiviral drug is produced in the form of tablets, 10 pieces in one plate. For better absorption of the drug into the walls of the large intestine, the tablets are coated with a protective coating. It protects the gastric mucosa from irritation, which is especially important for people prone to gastritis. The cost of 1 package of Valtrex is 1200 rubles.

    Valaciclovir

    These are tablets intended for the treatment of all forms of herpes, coated with a protective coating. One tablet contains 500 mg of the active substance - acyclovir valine ester. Produced by the Russian pharmacological company Izvarino Pharma. Each drug cassette contains 10 tablets. The cost of packaging is rubles.

    What is the difference and which drug will help better - distinctive pros and cons

    The drugs Acyclovir, Famvir, Valtrex and Valaciclovir, each in their own way, are effective in combating herpes infection and its pathological consequences for the human body. To understand in more detail the qualitative benefits of these drugs, you should study their features and pharmacological properties.

    Acyclovir

    This medication forms the basis of all antiviral drugs that pose a threat to the life of the herpes virus. Based on this component, most other antiviral tablets were created, but with a more advanced pharmaceutical formula.

    The advantages of Acyclovir are that it has a stable therapeutic effect, destroys the cellular structure of the DNA of the virus, prevents its reproduction, and therefore prevents the appearance of new foci of rashes on the skin. Approved for use as a shock drug against herpes infection, as well as as a prophylactic drug for people with a weakened immune system.

    Acyclovir is indicated for use by adults and children aged 2 years and older. The optimal duration of therapy is no more than 5 days. During this period, the symptoms of the disease completely recede and, in the absence of complications, the patient begins to recover. A distinctive feature of Acyclovir is that its use allows you to get rid of shingles in just three days. The antiviral drug not only suppresses the herpes infection inside the body, but also localizes the skin rash. The use of Acyclovir for this type of herpes virus is very important to prevent the occurrence of postherpetic neuralgia. The only contraindication and disadvantage of the drug is the patient’s tendency to have an allergic reaction to the active substance of the drug.

    Valtrex

    This is a complex antiviral agent that is used against genotypes 1, 2 and 6 of herpes. The medicine is considered very effective, but its administration should consist of 500 mg of the substance at least 2 times a day. This is a large dosage, which can negatively affect the general health of the patient. This is one of the main disadvantages of the medication. Therefore, the drug has a large number of medical contraindications. Valtrex is prohibited for inclusion in the therapeutic course for patients with renal or liver failure, diseases associated with damage to the cellular structure of the bone marrow, and patients diagnosed with HIV.

    Farmvir

    This is a universal medicine used to treat various viral infections, including a strain of herpes. The active component of the drug is the substance pharmaciclovir. To treat manifestations of herpetic infection, Pharmvir tablets are prescribed to patients with herpes zoster and viral damage to the mucous membrane of the eye. The duration of the therapeutic course is from 5 to 7 days. When using shock dosages, the drug can be used in the treatment of genital herpes. A significant disadvantage of Farmvir is that it cannot be used to treat patients under 18 years of age. It is prescribed with caution to patients who have individual intolerance to medications in this group.

    Valaciclovir

    Effectively fights the herpes virus of all genotypes and in addition strengthens the protective function of the immune system. The active component of Valacyclovir acts as a catalyst in the process of interferon synthesis, without which a person will not have strong immunity. The advantage of the medication is that it is taken only once a day, 30 minutes before the first meal. This is very convenient for treating people who lead an active lifestyle. One therapeutic course must consist of at least 40 tablets. The disadvantages of the drug include contraindications in the form of prohibition of use during pregnancy, lactation, in the presence of renal and liver failure, allergies.

    Based on the pharmacological characteristics of these antiviral drugs, we can make a reasonable conclusion that Acyclovir has the greatest number of positive therapeutic qualities, has virtually no medical contraindications for use and is suitable for the treatment of herpes of all genotypes in patients of various age categories.

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    What is the difference between Acyclovir and Valacyclovir?

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    Modern medicine offers a wide range of medications against herpes, which manifests itself in the form of blistering rashes on the skin and mucous membranes against the background of decreased immunity. Doctors more often prescribe the drugs "Acyclovir" or "Valacyclovir" with proven effectiveness. With the help of these medications, the activity of the virus is suppressed, the period of remission increases, and the number of exacerbations decreases. But many people ask questions: which drug is better to use for the treatment of herpes - “Acyclovir” or “Valacyclovir”; what is their difference? After all, their prices vary significantly.

    "Acyclovir" and "Valacyclovir"

    Both medications belong to the group of specific antiviral drugs that effectively fight herpes at the level of its DNA. But despite the almost identical mechanism of action, they differ significantly in pharmacokinetics, concentrations of the active substance and release forms.

    What common?

    Both drugs are antiviral, therefore they are endowed with the ability to suppress herpes infection of various strains - HSV, Zoster, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr, etc. The main indications for the use of these two drugs are:

    • labial (oral) herpes;
    • genital infection;
    • shingles.

    Medicines are prescribed for the treatment of acute, chronic, recurrent forms of herpes and as occasional suppressive therapy. Both drugs contain an active substance belonging to the acyclovir group and endowed with the ability to work against viral DNA by destroying the protective membrane of the pathogen. But these drugs have differences that allow you to choose one of them.

    Differences

    Both antiviral agents differ in several ways:

    • by release form;
    • characteristics of the active substance;
    • duration of treatment;
    • multiplicity of one-time receptions.

    "Acyclovir", as a means of preventing the spread of the virus to healthy cells, is available in different forms: external and ophthalmic ointment, cream, tablets, injection solution. It is used to relieve simple and herpes zoster, chickenpox. Most often prescribed in the form of ointments and tablets. The course of treatment with tablets is 10 days, the ointment can be used for a long course. But it should be remembered that the drug is addictive with long-term treatment.

    Acyclovir can be taken by pregnant women and children, but Valacyclovir is available only in the form of tablets, which are undesirable for this category of patients.

    "Valacyclovir" is available only in the form of tablets for oral administration, but with a higher concentration of the active substance. This form is classified as a semi-drug, which means that the main active ingredient (L-valine ester in the form of hydrochloride) enters the liver and is converted to acyclovir. This property of the drug ensures a prolonged effect and lack of addiction. As a result, it is enough to take 2 tablets of 500 mg per day, while Acyclovir is taken 6 tablets with a concentration of 200 mg. In this case, the duration of treatment with Valacyclovir is 5-7 days.

    What to choose?

    Today, doctors prefer Valacyclovir, since the drug belongs to the group of modified antiviral drugs, the main difference of which is the absence of the disadvantages of the first generation. "Valacyclovir" does not have the main drawback - low bioavailability when treated in tablet form (for "Acyclovir" it is 15%, while for "Valacyclovir" it is 75%). This is achieved by converting L-valine ester by liver enzymes (after absorption in the intestine) into valine amino acid and acyclovir.

    The variety of concentrations (250, 500, 1000 mg) of the active substance and the prolonged action of Valacyclovir allow it to be taken less frequently than its analogue. Therefore, the difference lies in reducing the risk of missing an appointment, which increases the effectiveness and speed of treatment. Valacyclovir is better tolerated by patients, and if the dosage is followed, side effects such as headaches and frustration do not occur. Contraindications for use are hypersensitivity to the drug, age under 12 years. Pregnant and lactating women are prescribed according to indications.

    “Acyclovir” is allowed to treat children from 3 years of age and pregnant women, but only in ointment form in small areas. When treating other groups of patients with this medication, the risks of side effects are higher with systemic use.

    Consequently, the only disadvantages of Valacyclovir are the high cost and the lack of other forms other than tablets.

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