aciclovir
an antiviral drug that inhibits DNA synthesis in cells infected by HERPESVIRUS . Administered topically, by mouth, or intravenously, it is used in the treatment of herpes zoster, genital herpes, herpetic eye disease, and herpes encephalitis and also in patients whose immune systems are compromised. Trade name: Zovirax.
Acyclovir is used to treat viral infections like chickenpox, herpes zoster (shingles) and genital herpes (a sexually transmitted disease). Acyclovir is in a class of medications called antivirals. It works by stopping the spread of the virus in the body. Acyclovir will not cure herpes infections and may not stop the spread of herpes virus to other people.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking aciclovir affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
It is not known whether aciclovir or valaciclovir can make it harder to get pregnant. If you have questions about fertility while taking this medication, it is best to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Does taking aciclovir increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many different reasons. The fact sheet notes that studies have not found an increased chance of miscarriage with aciclovir use. Any specific concerns should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Does taking aciclovir increase the risk of birth defects?
Every pregnancy begins with a background risk of 3–5% for birth defects. According to the fact sheet, use of aciclovir/valaciclovir is not expected to increase the chance of birth defects above this background risk, with reassuring data from over 500 births reviewed by the manufacturer and CDC, and a separate study of more than 1,500 infants exposed to aciclovir and over 200 exposed to valaciclovir in the first trimester. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh this information for your situation.
Can taking aciclovir during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
The fact sheet notes that use later in pregnancy has not been well studied for outcomes such as preterm delivery or low birth weight, though clinical experience has been reassuring. It also emphasizes that untreated infections themselves could cause problems for the pregnant person, the pregnancy, and the newborn. Your healthcare provider can discuss the balance of benefits and risks in your case.
Can taking aciclovir during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
According to the fact sheet, studies have not been done to see whether aciclovir or valaciclovir can cause behavior or learning issues in the child. Any questions about long-term child development should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking aciclovir?
The fact sheet states that aciclovir enters breast milk in small amounts, that aciclovir is commonly given directly to newborns, and that it does not typically cause problems for babies. If aciclovir cream or ointment is applied directly to the breast, the area should be cleaned well before nursing. Your healthcare provider can address your individual breastfeeding questions.
Source: National Library of Medicine
aciclovir