Aciclovir 800mg Tablets are an antiviral medication used to treat shingles, which is caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox (varicella-zoster) virus. It helps reduce the severity and duration of shingles symptoms by inhibiting the replication of the virus.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is Aciclovir Shingles treatment
Aciclovir belongs to a group of medicines called antivirals. It works by killing or stopping the growth of viruses, such as shingles.
What is Shingles?
Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. It is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After a person has had chickenpox, the virus can lie dormant in the body’s nerve cells for years or even decades before reactivating and causing shingles.
What are the symptoms of shingles?
The most common symptom of shingles is a painful, blistering rash that typically appears on one side of the body, often forming a stripe-like pattern. Other symptoms may include fever, headache, chills, and a general feeling of discomfort. Some individuals also experience tingling, itching, or pain in the affected area before the rash appears, which can last from a few days to a few weeks.
How do I take Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles?
It’s important to take this medicine exactly as told by your doctor or pharmacist. It is recommended to be taken orally, either by dissolving the tablet in a glass of water and stir before drinking or swallowing it whole with a little water.
The usual dose in adults is 800mg taken five times a day for seven days. These should be spaced by at least four hours, with the suggested times of 7am, 11am, 3pm, 7pm, and 11pm.
Is there any reason I cannot take Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles?
You should not take Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles if you are allergic to aciclovir or valaciclovir or any of the other ingredients of this medicine.
What are the side effects of Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles?
Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The most common side effects are:
headache
feeling dizzy
feeling or being sick
diarrhoea
stomach pain
rash
skin reaction after exposure to light
itching
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in the patient information leaflet.
Can I take Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles when pregnant?
If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine.
Can I drive while taking Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles?
There are some side effects such as feeling drowsy or sleepy may impair your ability to concentrate and react. Make sure you are not affected before you drive or operate machinery.
How do I store Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles?
This medicine should be kept out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the blister and the carton. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
How do I dispose of Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles?
Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles should not be thrown away via wastewater or household waste. Instead, ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.
Can I buy Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles online?
You can buy Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles online from trusted pharmacies, such as e-Surgery.
Whenever you buy Aciclovir 800mg Tablets online, or any other medication, make you sure you check for the green GPhC and MHRA logo on the bottom of each page you visit. You can also use the GPhC website to check if a pharmacy is legally registered. This will ensure that when you buy Aciclovir 800mg Tablets online it is genuine.
If I buy Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles online, how will it be delivered?
e-Surgery uses Royal Mail Delivery, with choices starting from Royal Mail Tracked 48, Royal Mail Tracked 24, and Royal Mail Special Delivery from 1pm (discover more about e-Surgery delivery).
Where can I find additional information about Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles?
If you require any additional information about Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles, e-Surgery has a free ‘Ask-a-Pharmacist’ service available where you can recieve advice from a UK trained pharmacist. We are here to help you!
How long does it take for Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles to start working?
Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles typically start to relieve symptoms within a few days of beginning treatment. However, it’s important to continue taking the medication as prescribed even after symptoms improve to ensure the virus is fully treated.
Can Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles interact with other medications?
Yes, Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles can interact with certain medications. Be sure to inform your doctor of all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles?
If you miss a dose of Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Can Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles cause any long-term side effects?
While Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles are generally well-tolerated, some rare, long-term side effects have been reported. Speak with your doctor if you experience any persistent or concerning symptoms while taking this medication.
How effective is Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles in preventing postherpetic neuralgia?
Postherpetic neuralgia is a common complication of shingles, characterised by persistent nerve pain. This medication, when taken early, can help reduce the risk of developing postherpetic neuralgia.
Can Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles be taken with alcohol?
It’s generally recommended to avoid consuming alcohol while taking Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles, as alcohol can increase the risk of certain side effects and may interact with the medication.
How quickly should I start taking Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles after the first symptoms appear?
It is recommended to start taking Aciclovir 800mg Tablets For Shingles as soon as possible after the first shingles symptoms appear. The earlier the treatment is started, the more effective it is in reducing the duration and severity of the shingles outbreak.
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