Acyclovir (Ophthalmic)
Indications
Acyclovir is indicated for the treatment of Herpes simplex keratitis.
Pharmacology
Acyclovir is an antiviral agent which is
highly active in vitro against Herpes simplex (HSV) types I and II and
Varicella zoster viruses, but its toxicity to mammalian cells is low.
Acyclovir is phosphorylated to the active compound Acyclovir
triphosphate after entry into herpes infected cell. The first step in
this process requires the presence of the viral-coded thymidine kinase.
Acyclovir triphosphate acts as an inhibitor of and substrate for the
herpes specified DNA polymerase preventing further viral DNA synthesis
without affecting normal cellular processes.
Dosage & Administration
The dosage for all age groups is the same. A
10 mm ribbon of the ointment should be placed inside the lower
conjunctival sac five times a day at approximately four hourly
intervals. Treatment should continue for at least 3 days after healing
Interaction
No clinically significant interactions have been identified.
Contraindications
Acyclovir is contraindicated in patients known to be hypersensitive to Acyclovir or Valacyclovir
Side Effects
Very common: Superficial punctate
keratopathy. This did not necessitate an early termination of therapy
and healed without apparent sequelae. Common: Transient mild stinging of
the eye occurring immediately following application, conjunctivitis.
Rare: Blepharitis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy category B. There are no adequate
and well-controlled studies of Acyclovir in pregnant women. It is not
known whether topically applied Acyclovir is excreted in breast milk.
Precautions & Warnings
The recommended dosage, frequency of applications, and length of treatment should not be exceeded.
Overdose Effects
No adverse effects would be expected if the entire contents of the tube containing 90 mg Acyclovir were ingested orally.
Therapeutic Class
Ophthalmic Anti-viral Products
Storage Conditions
Store in a cool and dry place. Keep away
from light. Keep out of reach of children. Do not touch the tip of the
tube since this may contaminate the product. After one month of the
opening do not use the medicine of tube.
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