Description
Acyclovir Pharmacodynamics
An antiviral drug, a synthetic analog of thymidine nucleoside, which has a highly selective effect on herpes viruses. A series of sequential reactions of acyclovir transformation into mono-, di- and triphosphate acyclovir takes place inside the virus-infected cells under the influence of viral thymidine kinase. Acyclovir triphosphate integrates into the chain of viral DNA and blocks its synthesis by competitive inhibition of viral DNA polymerase.
Specificity and very high selectivity of action are also due to its predominant accumulation in the cells affected by the herpes virus. It is highly active against Herpes simplex viruses of types 1 and 2; Varicella zoster and shingles viruses; Epstein-Barr viruses (types of viruses are listed in ascending order of the value of the minimum suppressive concentration of acyclovir). It is moderately active against cytomegalovirus.
In herpes it prevents formation of new rash elements, reduces the likelihood of cutaneous dissemination and visceral complications, accelerates crust formation, reduces pain in the acute phase of herpes zoster.
Indications
Skin infections caused by Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, including herpes lip.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to acyclovir and other components of the drug.
With caution:
Pregnancy, period of breastfeeding.
Pregnancy and lactation:
Adequate and strictly controlled clinical safety studies of the drug during pregnancy and breast-feeding have not been conducted. Use is indicated only in cases when the estimated benefit to the mother exceeds the potential risk to the fetus and child.
With caution:
Pregnancy, period of breastfeeding.
Pregnancy and lactation:
Adequate and strictly controlled clinical safety studies of the drug during pregnancy and breast-feeding have not been conducted. Use is indicated only in cases when the estimated benefit to the mother exceeds the potential risk to the fetus and child.
Dosage and administration method.
- Externally. Adults. The ointment is applied in a thin layer (about 1.25 cm strip of ointment per 25 cm2 of the affected skin) to the affected area 4-6 times a day. It is important to start treatment as early as possible in the beginning of the disease, better during the prodromal period. Duration of treatment shall be not less than 5 days, maximum 10 days.
- If symptoms of the disease do not disappear after 10 days of treatment, you should consult a doctor.
