Aclovir Tablets: Uses, Dosage, and Clinical Pharmacology Overview

Description:

Aclovir tablets, available in 400mg, 800mg, 250mg, and 500mg strengths, are used to treat and prevent infections caused by herpes simplex or varicella-zoster viruses. This comprehensive guide covers Aclovir tablets, including their clinical pharmacology, indications, contraindications, and potential drug interactions.

Qualitative and Quantitative Composition:

Each Aclovir Tablet U.S.P 400mg contains Acyclovir U.S.P.

Overview:

Acyclovir, a synthetic analogue of guanidine, effectively treats and prevents infections caused by herpes simplex or varicella-zoster viruses. It’s available in various forms such as tablets, oral suspension, and intravenous injection.

Clinical Pharmacology:

Mechanism of Action: Acyclovir, a synthetic purine nucleoside analogue, inhibits the replication of herpes simplex virus types 1 (HSV1), 2 (HSV2), and varicella-zoster virus (VZV) by interfering with viral DNA synthesis.

Pharmacodynamics: Acyclovir displays potent antiviral activity against HSV1, followed by HSV2, VZV, Epstein Barr virus (EBV), and cytomegalovirus (CMV) in cell culture.

Acyclovir undergoes slow absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, reaching peak plasma concentrations approximately 2 hours after ingestion. Its primary elimination route is renal excretion.

Indications and Usage:

Aclovir treats conditions including acute herpes zoster (shingles), initial episodes, and management of recurrent genital herpes, chickenpox, herpes simplex infections in immunocompromised patients, herpes simplex encephalitis, neonatal herpes simplex virus infection, and varicella-zoster infections in immunocompromised patients.

Contraindications:

Aclovir is contraindicated for patients hypersensitive to acyclovir or valacyclovir.

Drug Interactions:

Cyclosporine: Concurrent use of acyclovir and cyclosporine may increase serum levels of cyclosporine, potentially leading to nephrotoxicity.

Cimetidine and Probenecid: Cimetidine and probenecid may elevate acyclovir levels in the blood by competing for renal tubular secretion.

Mycophenolate Mofetil: Co-administration of acyclovir and mycophenolate mofetil can increase plasma levels of both drugs.

Theophylline: Acyclovir may elevate the AUC (area under the curve) of theophylline when used concomitantly.

Use in Specific Populations:

Administering acyclovir to nursing mothers requires caution due to the drug’s excretion in breast milk.

This article offers a detailed overview of Aclovir tablets, their pharmacological properties, and usage guidelines. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized information and recommendations regarding medication use.