Acyvir
Generic Name
Acyclovir 500 mg Injection
Manufacturer
Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (example)
Country
Bangladesh (example)
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| acyvir 500 mg injection | ৳ 700.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Acyvir 500 mg Injection contains Acyclovir, an antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV), including genital herpes, herpes encephalitis, and varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infections such as chickenpox and shingles. It works by stopping the growth and spread of the virus.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies based on indication and renal function. Typically 5-10 mg/kg intravenously every 8 hours, infused slowly over 1 hour.
Elderly
Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on renal function.
Renal_impairment
Significant dose adjustments required. Dosage interval should be extended, or dose reduced based on creatinine clearance.
How to Take
Acyvir 500 mg Injection should be administered by slow intravenous infusion over a period of at least 1 hour to avoid rapid plasma concentrations, which can lead to renal tubular precipitation. Ensure adequate hydration during treatment.
Mechanism of Action
Acyclovir is a synthetic purine nucleoside analogue with in vitro and in vivo inhibitory activity against human herpes viruses, including herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2, and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It is selectively taken up by virus-infected cells and converted to acyclovir triphosphate, which inhibits viral DNA synthesis by competing with deoxyguanosine triphosphate for viral DNA polymerase and by being incorporated into viral DNA, leading to chain termination.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapidly distributed to tissues and body fluids, including CSF.
Excretion
Mainly excreted unchanged in the urine via glomerular filtration and tubular secretion.
Half life
Plasma half-life is approximately 2.5 to 3.3 hours in adults with normal renal function.
Absorption
Following intravenous administration, acyclovir is 100% bioavailable.
Metabolism
Primarily excreted unchanged. A minor metabolite, 9-carboxymethoxymethylguanine, is found in urine.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to acyclovir or valacyclovir.
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Increases acyclovir plasma concentration and half-life by reducing renal clearance.
Mycophenolate Mofetil
Increases plasma AUC of both drugs; monitor for increased toxicity.
Nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., cyclosporine, aminoglycosides)
Increased risk of renal dysfunction; monitor renal function closely.
Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from light. Do not refrigerate the reconstituted solution as precipitation may occur. Use the reconstituted solution within 12 hours.
Overdose
Overdose symptoms include increased serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen, and renal failure. Hemodialysis is an effective method for removing acyclovir from the blood.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Acyclovir crosses the placenta. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Acyclovir is excreted into breast milk; use with caution in nursing mothers.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to acyclovir or valacyclovir.
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Increases acyclovir plasma concentration and half-life by reducing renal clearance.
Mycophenolate Mofetil
Increases plasma AUC of both drugs; monitor for increased toxicity.
Nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., cyclosporine, aminoglycosides)
Increased risk of renal dysfunction; monitor renal function closely.
Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from light. Do not refrigerate the reconstituted solution as precipitation may occur. Use the reconstituted solution within 12 hours.
Overdose
Overdose symptoms include increased serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen, and renal failure. Hemodialysis is an effective method for removing acyclovir from the blood.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Acyclovir crosses the placenta. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Acyclovir is excreted into breast milk; use with caution in nursing mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date when stored correctly. Refer to product specific labeling.
Availability
Hospitals and pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies globally
Patent Status
Off-patent (generic available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Acyclovir has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety for various herpes virus infections, leading to its widespread approval and use since the early 1980s.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitor renal function (serum creatinine, BUN) before and during treatment.
- Monitor neurological status, especially in patients with renal impairment or high doses.
Doctor Notes
- Ensure adequate hydration to prevent renal complications.
- Administer via slow IV infusion (over 1 hour) to minimize renal tubular precipitation.
- Adjust dose in renal impairment based on creatinine clearance.
- Monitor for signs of neurotoxicity, especially in elderly or renally impaired patients.
Patient Guidelines
- Inform your doctor about any kidney problems.
- Ensure adequate hydration during treatment.
- Report any unusual side effects immediately.
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, administer it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
This medicine may cause dizziness, confusion, or other neurological symptoms. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent spread of herpes viruses.
- Avoid sexual contact during outbreaks of genital herpes.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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