ACIC 800 Tablets

What is ACIC 800

ACIC 800 is an antiviral medication that contains Aciclovir 800 mg as its active ingredient. It comes in the form of oral tablets, typically used in the treatment of infections caused by the herpes virus family.

• Therapeutic class: Antiviral agent.
• Form: Tablets.
• Packaging: 35 tablets (5 tablets per blister × 7 blisters).

ACIC 800 is primarily used for the treatment and suppression of:

• Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections (including genital herpes and cold sores).
• Varicella-zoster virus (VZV), responsible for chickenpox and shingles (herpes zoster).
• It may also be prescribed as a preventive therapy in immunocompromised patients (e.g., those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy) to avoid herpes virus reactivation.

This higher 800 mg strength is especially useful for managing severe infections like herpes zoster, where more intensive antiviral therapy is necessary.

How to use ACIC 800

ACIC 800 should always be taken exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. It is important to follow the prescribed regimen to ensure effective viral suppression and minimize the risk of resistance.

• Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Dosage frequency: Usually taken 5 times daily (every 4 hours while awake) for acute herpes zoster infections. For other conditions, the frequency may vary.
• Duration of therapy: Commonly 7 to 10 days for shingles; however, this may differ based on the indication and clinical response.
• Hydration: Maintain adequate fluid intake during therapy to support kidney function and enhance drug excretion.

Missed dose:

• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered.
• Do not double the next dose to make up for the missed one.

Always consult your doctor before stopping the medication, even if symptoms improve early. Stopping too soon may allow the virus to continue replicating.

Mode of Action ACIC 800

ACIC 800 (Aciclovir) is a synthetic purine nucleoside analogue with selective antiviral activity. Its mechanism of action is targeted and effective against herpesviruses.

• Activation: Aciclovir is converted into its active form, aciclovir triphosphate, through a series of phosphorylation steps. The first step is catalyzed by the viral enzyme thymidine kinase — this ensures selectivity, as human cells do not efficiently activate the drug.
• Inhibition of DNA synthesis: Aciclovir triphosphate competes with deoxyguanosine triphosphate (dGTP) for incorporation into viral DNA.
• Chain termination: Once incorporated into the viral DNA, aciclovir triphosphate terminates the DNA chain, effectively halting viral replication.

This selective action makes aciclovir effective against:

• Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2)
• Varicella-zoster virus (VZV)
• To a lesser extent, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Since the drug specifically targets virus-infected cells, it minimizes damage to healthy human cells, offering a favorable safety profile.

ACIC 800 Interactions ACIC 800

ACIC 800 (Aciclovir) is generally well tolerated, but drug interactions can occur, especially when used alongside other nephrotoxic or renally excreted medications. Important interactions include:

• Probenecid: Slows the renal clearance of aciclovir, potentially increasing plasma levels and risk of toxicity.
• Cimetidine: May reduce aciclovir clearance, leading to increased blood concentrations.
• Mycophenolate mofetil: Can elevate aciclovir and mycophenolate levels when co-administered, increasing side effects.
• Other nephrotoxic drugs: Such as cyclosporine, tacrolimus, aminoglycosides, and NSAIDs, may enhance the risk of kidney toxicity when combined with high-dose aciclovir.
• Interference with laboratory tests: May affect serum creatinine measurements if taken with drugs that alter kidney function.

Precautions:

• Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you’re using.
• Kidney function should be monitored when aciclovir is taken with any potentially nephrotoxic agents.

Dosage of ACIC 800

Dosage may vary based on the condition being treated, the severity of infection, renal function, and patient age. Below is general guidance:

• Herpes Zoster (Shingles): 800 mg orally five times daily for 7–10 days.
• Genital Herpes (Initial Episode): 200 mg five times daily or 400 mg three times daily; ACIC 800 is not typically used for genital herpes unless high-dose suppression is required.
• Varicella (Chickenpox): 800 mg four times daily for 5 days (in immunocompetent adults).
• Herpes Simplex Suppression (Immunocompromised): May require 800 mg twice daily or adjusted dosing.

Special Populations:

• Renal impairment: Dosage must be adjusted based on creatinine clearance.
• Elderly patients: Monitor renal function and hydration status; reduce dose if necessary.

Always follow the doctor’s prescription. Never adjust the dose without medical advice.

Possible side effects of ACIC 800

Most patients tolerate ACIC 800 well. However, side effects can occur, especially with high-dose or long-term use. These include:

• Common side effects:
• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Less common side effects:
• Abdominal pain
• Dizziness
• Skin rash or itching
• Photosensitivity
• Rare but serious side effects:
• Neurotoxicity (confusion, hallucinations, tremor — especially in elderly or those with renal impairment)
• Kidney dysfunction (elevated creatinine, decreased urine output)
• Allergic reactions (swelling, rash, anaphylaxis — very rare)

Reporting: If you experience any persistent or severe symptoms, notify your doctor. In case of signs of allergic reaction (e.g., swelling of face or lips, difficulty breathing), seek immediate medical attention.

ACIC 800 Contraindications ACIC 800

While ACIC 800 is widely used, it is not suitable for all patients. Contraindications include:

• Hypersensitivity: Known allergy to aciclovir, valaciclovir, or any excipients in the tablet formulation.
• Severe renal impairment: High doses can accumulate in patients with significantly impaired kidney function. Dose adjustment is required, and in some cases, the drug may be contraindicated entirely.

Relative contraindications (use with caution):

• Elderly patients: Increased risk of neurotoxicity and renal adverse effects. Requires close monitoring.
• Dehydrated patients: Higher risk of nephrotoxicity; ensure adequate hydration.
• Patients on nephrotoxic drugs: Use caution to avoid kidney damage.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting the medication, particularly if you have underlying health conditions.

Storage of ACIC 800

Proper storage is essential to maintain the stability and effectiveness of ACIC 800 tablets.

• Temperature: Store below 25°C (77°F).
• Humidity: Keep in a dry place. Avoid exposure to moisture.
• Packaging: Store tablets in the original blister pack until use to protect from light and air exposure.
• Keep out of reach of children: Store in a secure cabinet or drawer to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Do not use after expiry date: Check the packaging for the expiration date and discard appropriately.

Do not store in the bathroom or any other damp location. If tablets become discolored, brittle, or show signs of spoilage, do not consume and consult your pharmacist.