ACLOHERP 800 mg Tablet

What is ACLOHERP 800 mg

ACLOHERP 800 mg is an antiviral medication containing the active ingredient Aciclovir, which is widely used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses. This includes infections such as:

• Herpes simplex virus (HSV): responsible for conditions like genital herpes, cold sores (herpes labialis), and herpes keratitis.
• Varicella-zoster virus (VZV): which causes chickenpox and shingles (herpes zoster).

ACLOHERP tablets are designed for oral administration, each containing 800 mg of aciclovir, usually provided in blister packs of 25 tablets (5 tablets per blister × 5 blisters). The higher dose formulation is typically reserved for more severe infections or initial acute episodes, providing effective viral suppression and symptom relief.

Aciclovir in ACLOHERP works by targeting viral DNA replication, limiting the ability of the virus to multiply and spread, which helps reduce symptoms and duration of infection. It is prescribed both for active outbreaks and sometimes as suppressive therapy to prevent recurrences.

How to use ACLOHERP 800 mg

To ensure the best therapeutic results, it is crucial to use ACLOHERP 800 mg tablets correctly:

• Dosage adherence: Always follow the prescribed dosage by your healthcare provider. Do not self-adjust doses.
• Oral administration: Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablets.
• Timing: Take doses at evenly spaced intervals, usually 3 to 5 times daily, depending on the infection.
• With or without food: ACLOHERP can be taken regardless of meals, but taking it with food may help reduce stomach discomfort.
• Complete the full course: Continue treatment for the entire prescribed duration even if symptoms improve, to prevent relapse and resistance.
• Hydration: Maintain adequate fluid intake during therapy to reduce the risk of renal side effects.
• Missed dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the next dose. Do not double doses.

If you have any difficulty swallowing tablets or experience side effects, consult your healthcare provider promptly.

Mode of Action ACLOHERP 800 mg

ACLOHERP’s antiviral effect is due to its active ingredient, Aciclovir, which is a synthetic nucleoside analogue. Its mechanism of action involves several key steps:

• Selective activation: Aciclovir is initially phosphorylated by the viral enzyme thymidine kinase inside infected cells, a process which does not occur significantly in healthy cells.
• Conversion to active form: Cellular kinases further phosphorylate it to aciclovir triphosphate, the pharmacologically active metabolite.
• Inhibition of viral DNA polymerase: Aciclovir triphosphate competes with deoxyguanosine triphosphate and gets incorporated into viral DNA.
• DNA chain termination: Once incorporated, it causes premature termination of viral DNA synthesis, preventing viral replication and spread.

This selective targeting limits damage to host DNA, making the drug both effective and generally safe for treating herpes virus infections.

ACLOHERP 800 mg Interactions ACLOHERP 800 mg

While ACLOHERP 800 mg is generally well tolerated, it can interact with certain medications or conditions, requiring caution:

• Nephrotoxic agents: Drugs such as aminoglycosides, cyclosporine, amphotericin B, and NSAIDs can increase the risk of kidney toxicity when used concomitantly.
• Probenecid: This drug can decrease the renal clearance of aciclovir, raising its blood concentration and potentially enhancing side effects.
• Other antivirals: Concurrent use with other antiviral agents like valacyclovir or famciclovir may increase the risk of adverse effects.
• Live vaccines: The efficacy of live varicella or zoster vaccines might be reduced if ACLOHERP is taken around the same time.
• Renal impairment: Since aciclovir is primarily excreted via kidneys, co-administration with drugs that alter renal function should be carefully monitored.

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid possible harmful interactions.

Dosage of ACLOHERP 800 mg

The dosing regimen of ACLOHERP 800 mg depends on the type and severity of the herpes infection, as well as patient-specific factors:

• Initial episodes of genital herpes: 800 mg orally 5 times daily for 7 to 10 days.
• Recurrent episodes: 800 mg orally 5 times daily for 5 days.
• Suppressive therapy for recurrent genital herpes: 400 mg twice daily, or 800 mg once daily (dosing varies based on clinical judgment).
• Herpes zoster (shingles): 800 mg orally 5 times daily for 7 to 10 days.
• Varicella (chickenpox): 800 mg orally 5 times daily for 5 days (mostly used in adults or immunocompromised patients).

Adjustments: Dosage adjustments may be necessary for patients with renal impairment. Dose and frequency should be modified based on creatinine clearance.

Note: These regimens are guidelines; always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions precisely.

Possible side effects of ACLOHERP 800 mg

ACLOHERP is usually well tolerated, but side effects can occur. These include:

• Common side effects: headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and fatigue.
• Neurological effects: dizziness, confusion, hallucinations, and rarely seizures, especially in elderly or those with renal impairment.
• Renal effects: interstitial nephritis or crystalluria, particularly if dehydration occurs or the drug is given in high doses without adequate hydration.
• Hypersensitivity reactions: rash, itching, or in rare cases, anaphylaxis.
• Blood abnormalities: rare instances of thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, or anemia.

If you experience severe side effects or signs of allergic reaction, such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or severe rash, seek medical attention immediately.

ACLOHERP 800 mg Contraindications ACLOHERP 800 mg

ACLOHERP should not be used in patients who:

• Have a known hypersensitivity to aciclovir or any component of the formulation.
• Have severe renal impairment without proper dose adjustment or monitoring.
• Have a history of allergic reactions to other antiviral drugs in the same class.
• Use caution in pregnancy and lactation; only use if clearly needed and prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Always disclose your full medical history to your doctor before starting ACLOHERP to avoid complications.

Storage of ACLOHERP 800 mg

• Store tablets in their original blister packaging until use to protect from moisture and light.
• Keep at room temperature, ideally between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Avoid storing in humid or wet areas such as bathrooms.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Do not use beyond the expiry date stated on the package.
• Dispose of unused or expired medication safely, according to local regulations or pharmacy guidance.