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acyclovir
Acyclo-V‡, Zovirax

Pregnancy Risk Category C

How supplied
Ointment: 5%

Action
Inhibits herpes simplex and varicella-zoster viral DNA synthesis by inhibiting viral DNA polymerase action.

Indications & dosage
Initial herpes genitalis; limited, non-life-threatening mucocutaneous herpes simplex virus infections in immunocompromised patients--
Adults: cover all lesions q 3 hours six times daily for 7 days. Although dose varies depending on total lesion area, use about 1/4-inch (1.3-cm) ribbon of ointment on each 4-inch (10-cm) square of surface area.

Adverse reactions
Skin: transient burning and stinging, rash, pruritus, vulvitis; edema, pain at application site.

Interactions
None significant.

Effects on diagnostic tests
None reported.

Contraindications
Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity or chemical intolerance to drug.

Nursing considerations

Patient teaching

*Liquid contains alcohol. **May contain tartrazine.  †Canada  ‡Australia  §U.K.  OTCOver the counter
Reactions may be common, uncommon, life-threatening, or COMMON AND LIFE-THREATENING

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