Indications

Herpes simplex virus infections of the skin including initial and recurrent herpes genitalis, herpes labialis.

Present

Tube of 5g of ointment. Box of 1 tube.

Composition

Aciclovir ……………………………………….0.25g
Excipients s.q. for……………………………..….5g
(White soft paraffin, Glyceryl monostearate, Cetostearyl alcohol).

Actions

– Aciclovir is a synthetic purine nucleoside analogue (acycloguanosine) and is selectively active against HSV type 1 and VZV.
– HSV type 1 appears to be the most susceptible, then type 2, followed by VZV. EBV and CMV are also susceptible to Aciclovir to a lesser extent.

Contra-Indications

Hypersensitivity to any ingredient of the medicine.

Side effect

– Burning sensation and transient stinging may occur during Aciclovir application.
– Rare: rash, itching. Desquamation and dryness of skin may occur.
Discontinue the medicine and inform your doctor about side– effects when using this medicine.

Precaution

– Do not use Aciclovir ointment if there is no pathological signs and symptoms.
– Aciclovir ointment should not be used as prophylaxis against HSV reinfection.
– Do not apply Aciclovir ointment onto mucous membrane such as inside of the mouth or vagina that may lead to hypersensitization.
– Aciclovir ointment is for dermatological only, not for ophthalmological application.
PREGNANCY & LACTATION:
Caution should be exercised when it is given during pregnancy and lactation.

Interaction

– Aciclovir ointment should not be used as a base to incorporate other ingredients.
– Amphotericin B and Ketoconazole may increase antiviral activity of Aciclovir.
– Interferon may increase antiviral activity of Aciclovir in vitro.
Inform your doctor about other treatments to avoid interactions.
OVERDOSAGE & MANAGEMENT:
– There are still no reports of overdosage by using ointment containing Aciclovir.
– Should overdosage occur, turn to the nearest healthcare facility for medical attention of the healthcare professionals.

Shelf life

24 months from the manufacturing date.

Storage

Store in a dry place (RH ≤ 70%), not exceeding 30^oC. Protect from light.

Dosage

– Apply to the affected area, 5 – 6 times daily, every 4 hrs.
– The therapy course should be 5 – 7 days long. If the lesion was not healed, the course may be continued to 10 days.
– The initiation of therapy should be as soon as the pathological signs and symptoms are present.