Acyclovir (By injection)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to acyclovir or valacyclovir.

Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
This medicine must be given slowly, so the needle will stay in place for about 1 hour.
Use a new needle and syringe each time you inject your medicine.
Missed dose: You must use this medicine on a fixed schedule. Call your doctor or pharmacist if you miss a dose.
If you store this medicine at home, keep it at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. After the medicine powder in the bottle has been mixed with the liquid, store the mixture in the refrigerator in a closed container. Bring it to room temperature before you use it. The mixture must be used within 12 hours after it is mixed.
Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container away from children and pets.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney or liver disease, or a history of electrolyte problems, breathing problems, or neurologic disorders such as seizures or head injury.
Do not become dehydrated, because dehydration can increase your risk for serious side effects. Drink extra liquids while you are using this medicine.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
Black, bloody, or tarry stools
Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, pain in your upper stomach, yellow skin or eyes
Decrease in how much or how often you urinate
Pain or swelling where the IV needle is placed
Swelling in your face, fingers, feet, or lower legs
Unusual bleeding or bruising

Last Updated: 1/27/2017