Ranbaxy Aciclovir 400mg Tablet x56

Ranbaxy Aciclovir 400mg Tablet is a prescription antiviral medication containing aciclovir (also spelled acyclovir) as its active ingredient. This drug is widely used to treat various viral infections caused by herpes simplex viruses (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV).

Uses

Ranbaxy Aciclovir 400mg Tablet is primarily used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including:

• Genital herpes (initial and recurrent episodes)
• Cold sores (herpes labialis)
• Shingles (herpes zoster)
• Chickenpox in immunocompromised patients
• Herpes simplex encephalitis
• Prevention of herpes infections in immunocompromised individuals

Benefits

• Effectively treats various herpes virus infections
• Reduces the severity and duration of outbreaks
• May help prevent future herpes outbreaks when used as suppressive therapy
• Generally well-tolerated by most patients
• Can be used for both treatment and prevention in certain cases
• Helps alleviate pain and discomfort associated with herpes infections
• May reduce the risk of viral transmission in some cases
• Available in a convenient tablet form

How It Works

Aciclovir works by inhibiting the replication of herpes viruses. It is selectively converted to aciclovir monophosphate by viral thymidine kinase, which is then converted to aciclovir triphosphate by cellular enzymes. This active form inhibits viral DNA polymerase, preventing further viral DNA synthesis and replication.

Dosage

The typical dosage for Ranbaxy Aciclovir 400mg Tablet varies depending on the condition being treated:

• For genital herpes: 400mg three times daily for 7-10 days (initial episode) or 5 days (recurrent episodes)
• For cold sores: 400mg three times daily for 5 days
• For shingles: 800mg five times daily for 7-10 days

Always follow your doctor’s prescribed dosage instructions, as they may vary based on individual factors.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness. These are usually mild and resolve on their own. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider.

Warning

Aciclovir should be used with caution in patients with kidney problems, as dosage adjustments may be necessary. Adequate hydration is important during treatment. In rare cases, aciclovir can cause neurological side effects, particularly in elderly patients or those with kidney issues.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Aciclovir is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but should only be used when clearly needed. It can be used while breastfeeding, but monitoring the infant for potential side effects is recommended. Always consult your healthcare provider before using this medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Interaction

• May interact with drugs that affect kidney function
• Potential interaction with probenecid, increasing aciclovir levels
• Could interact with certain immunosuppressants
• Possible interaction with zidovudine, increasing the risk of neurological side effects
• May interact with nephrotoxic drugs, increasing the risk of kidney problems

Important Information

Take Ranbaxy Aciclovir 400mg Tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication. This helps prevent the development of drug-resistant viruses. Stay well-hydrated while taking this medication. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Practice safe sex and inform sexual partners if you have genital herpes, as transmission can still occur even when using this medication.