Acyclovir (Zovirax)

Acyclovir Photo

KEY POINTS

• Acyclovir (Zovirax) works by inhibiting viral DNA synthesis
• Available in oral, intravenous and topical formulations
• Can be used for treating viruses such as herpes simplex virus (HSV) 1, HSV 2 and varicella zoster virus (VZV)
• Adjust dose for kidney dysfunction
• Beware crystaluria (kidney toxicity)
  • Particular caution should be taken when using high-dose IV acyclovir
• Patients should be well hydrated, some institutions have protocols for pre/post-dose NS boluses PLUS maintenance NS

RESOURCES

• Acyclovir Package Insert
• CDC STI Guideline
• IDSA Practice Guidelines
• Acyclovir STAT pearls 2021
• Neurotoxicity associated with acyclovir and valacyclovir: A systematic review of cases