Acyclovir (Injection)
Generic Details
Generic Name
Acyclovir Injection
Other Names
- Acyclovir Sodium
Drug Class
- Antiviral
Chemical Formula
C8H11N5O3
Molecular Weight
225.21 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits viral DNA synthesis by competing with deoxyguanosine triphosphate for viral DNA polymerase
Indications
- Herpes simplex infections
- Varicella-zoster infections
- Severe chickenpox infections in immunocompromised patients
- Herpes zoster (shingles)
- Herpes simplex encephalitis
Common Dosage Forms
- Injection
Typical Dosage
- Adult: 5-10 mg/kg infused at a constant rate over 1 hour every 8 hours
- Pediatric: Individualized based on weight and condition
Pediatric Dosage
- Dosing dependent on weight and indication
Geriatric Dosage
- Adjust dosage based on renal function
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Rash
- Renal toxicity with high doses
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to acyclovir or valacyclovir
Pregnancy Category
- Category B - No evidence of risk in humans
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available, use caution or avoid
Drug Interactions
- Probenecid can increase acyclovir concentration
- Nephrotoxic drugs may potentiate renal toxicity
Overdose Symptoms
- Renal toxicity
- Neurological effects
Antidote for Overdose
- Supportive care and symptomatic treatment
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature below 25°C (77°F)
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed following IV administration
- Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta; distributed into breast milk
- Metabolism: Minimal hepatic metabolism
- Excretion: Primarily via renal excretion
Precautions
- Stay well hydrated during treatment to prevent renal toxicity
Warnings
- Monitor renal function regularly during high-dose therapy