Acyclovir is an antiviral drug, a synthetic nucleoside analogue, that is considered to be effective for the treatment of herpes simplex virus infections, and herpes zoster (shingles).

Oral Acyclovir is prescribed for treating genital herpes, herpes zoster, and chickenpox. The drug works by reducing the pain and the number of lesions in the initial case of genital herpes, and decreases the frequency and severity of recurrent infections. In the treatment of shingles, Acyclovir reduces pain, shortens the healing time, and helps to stop the further spread of virus and the formation of new lesions.

Acyclovir preparation can be used to treat chicken pox by reducing healing time, limit the number of lesions, and reduce fever if used within the first 24 hours after the onset of illness. Intravenous Acyclovir is used for treating herpes simplex and chicken pox in immune-compromised patients and severe genital herpes. Acyclovir ointment is used mainly to treat initial genital herpes where it has been shown to decrease pain, reduce healing time, and limit the further spread of the infection.

The mode of administration of Acyclovir is rather simple and convenient: it should be taken with or without food usually for 7 days. For adults oral doses vary from 200 mg to 800 mg every 4 hours (5 times daily). The usual adult intravenous dose is 5-10 mg/kg every 8 hours for 7 days.

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