Aciclovir 400mg tablets for Suppression of Genital Herpes

Description This Aciclovir herpes suppression treatment (tablets) is recommended for individuals experiencing more than 6 genital herpes outbreaks annually. Description Directions Take one tablet twice a day. You can take aciclovir tablets with or without food. Drink plenty of water while taking this medicine. Swallow the tablets whole with a drink of water. If you find tablets difficult to swallow, you can dissolve them in water. Add a tablet to a small glass of water and stir. Directions Warnings Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Allergic reactions (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people) If you have an allergic reaction, stop taking Aciclovir Tablets and see a doctor straight away. The signs may include: • Rash, itching or hives on your skin • Swelling of your face, lips, tongue or other parts of your body • Shortness of breath, wheezing or trouble breathing • Collapse Other side effects include: Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people): • Headache • Feeling dizzy • Feeling or being sick • Diarrhoea • Stomach pains • Rash • Skin reaction after exposure to light (photosensitivity) • Itching • Feeling tired • Unexplained fever (high temperature) and feeling faint, especially when standing up. Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): • Itchy, hive-like rash • Hair loss. Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people): • Effects on some blood and urine tests • Increases in the enzymes that work in the liver. Very rare (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people): • Reduced numbers of red blood cells (anaemia) • Reduced numbers of white blood cells (leukopenia) • Reduced numbers of blood platelets (cells that help blood to clot) (thrombocytopenia) • Feeling weak • Feeling agitated or confused • Shaking or tremors • Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there) • Fits • Feeling unusually sleepy or drowsy • Unsteadiness when walking and lack of coordination • Difficulty speaking • Inability to think or judge clearly • Unconsciousness (coma) • Paralysis of part or all of your body • Disturbances of behaviour, speech and eye movements • Stiff neck and sensitivity to light • Inflammation of the liver (hepatitis) • Yellowing of your skin and whites of your eyes (jaundice) • Kidney problems where you pass little or no urine • Pain in your lower back, the kidney area of your back or just above your hip (renal pain). Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed here. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine. Warnings Ingredients The active substance is aciclovir. Each tablet contains 400 mg of aciclovir. The other ingredients may vary depending on the manufacturer. Ingredients FAQs What triggers herpes outbreaks after years? The herpes virus remains in the body indefinitely. Outbreaks become less frequent and severe over time but can still occur due to triggers such as stress, sunbed use, smoking, alcohol consumption, tight clothing, sexual activity, illness, and menstrual cycles. How long do herpes outbreaks typically last? Initial outbreaks may last 2 to 4 weeks, but subsequent outbreaks are usually shorter and less severe. Some individuals may never experience another episode of symptoms. Is it safe to take Aciclovir long-term for herpes suppression? Studies have shown that Aciclovir is safe for long-term use in suppressing herpes outbreaks. It's recommended to use the treatment for at least a year to effectively manage outbreaks. How is herpes transmitted? Herpes is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, including kissing, oral, vaginal, and anal sex, fingering, and sharing sex toys. The virus is most contagious when sores are present, but transmission can occur even without visible blisters. Can I consume alcohol while taking Aciclovir? Yes, alcohol consumption is generally safe while on Aciclovir treatment. It's advised to maintain normal eating habits and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Is Aciclovir safe during pregnancy? It's essential to consult with a doctor or pharmacist before using Aciclovir treatment during pregnancy. Important information about Aciclovir usage: Aciclovir cannot be prescribed if pregnant or breastfeeding. Regular STI screening is recommended due to herpes being a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Frequent outbreaks may indicate a weakened immune system, potentially linked to HIV, so knowing one's HIV status is crucial. Can other medications be taken alongside herpes suppression treatment? Aciclovir may interact with certain medications. It's vital to inform healthcare providers about all prescription, over-the-counter, and recreational drugs being used to ensure safe prescription of Aciclovir.FAQs