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Acyclovir
Acyclovir is a drug that is used to treat shingles, genital herpes, and chickenpox. These conditions are caused by viruses, and the medication works by preventing the viruses from multiplying. Acyclovir is available in a number of forms, including tablets, capsules, and an oral suspension. Common side effects of the drug include nausea, diarrhea, and headaches.
Acyclovir (Zovirax®) is a prescription medication used to treat the following conditions:
This article focuses on the oral forms of acyclovir.
(For information on other forms, click Zovirax Cream or Zovirax Ointment.)
(Click What Is Acyclovir Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
As with any medicine, side effects are possible. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects include, but are not limited to:
(Click Acyclovir Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider. You can read about a specific acyclovir side effect by clicking Zovirax Hair Loss.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD