Description
Acyclovir-Acrihin Pharmacodynamics
Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. Highly active in vitro against Herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2. Low toxicity to mammalian host cells. After entering the cells infected with herpes virus, acyclovir is phosphorylated to the active compound – acyclovir triphosphate. The first step of this process depends on the presence of the HSV-encoded imidinkinase enzyme. Acyclovir triphosphate acts as an inhibitor and substrate of herpes-specific DNA polymerase, preventing further synthesis of viral DNA without affecting normal cellular processes.
Indications
Treatment of viral infections caused by Herpes simplex virus, lips and facial skin (recurrent herpes lip).
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to acyclovir, valacyclovir, propylene glycol or other drug components.
Caution
Pregnancy, breast-feeding.
Usage during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
Pregnancy
Use is possible only when the anticipated benefit to the mother exceeds the potential and unknown risk to the fetus, but systemic exposure is very low with topical application of the ointment. Post-registration experience with acyclovir has yielded data with information on pregnancy outcomes in women who received acyclovir in any dosage form. The data show no increase in birth defects among patients treated with acyclovir compared to the general population, and no birth defects have been reported that are unique or characterized by a consistent set of features indicating a common cause. Consult a physician before use if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant or are planning a pregnancy while breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding period.
Limited data show that acyclovir passes into breast milk with regular use. However, the dose received by a breastfed infant will be negligible.
Dosage and administration
- For external use only.
- Use the drug only according to the indications, the route of administration and the doses stated in the instructions.
- Adults and children: Apply 5 times a day, about every 4 hours except at night to the affected and adjacent skin areas. It is important to start treatment as early as possible, preferably when the first signs and symptoms appear (in the prodromal period or when there is redness). Treatment can also be started at later stages (papule or blister). The duration of treatment is at least 4 days. If there is no healing, treatment may be continued for up to 10 days. If symptoms persist for more than 10 days, you should consult a doctor. To prevent the condition from worsening and to prevent the spread of infection, you should wash your hands before and after applying the drug, do not rub or touch the affected areas of the skin with a towel.