An effective modern medical tool to combat viral infections is Acyclovir. Ointment has an active effect on herpes viruses. The mechanism of action is based on the entry of the drug into the chain of viral DNA. In this process, the synthesis of the molecule is blocked. The effectiveness of the drug is due to the property of its accumulation in cells affected by herpes. "Acyclovir ointment" is also used in the treatment of shingles, chicken pox.
The use of this tool prevents the formation of new foci of rash, complications, accelerates the formation of crusts. In addition, it helps to reduce the pain symptom in cases of severe herpes zoster .
"Acyclovir cream." Application
The drug is available in the form of a cream, ointment for external use, an eye ointment, in tablets, solutions for injections. Indications for use are as follows:
- Viral skin infections. Mucosal infections;
- Prevention of relapse of infections in the acute stage;
- Combined therapy for immunocompromised patients;
- Primary and recurrent infections caused by chickenpox virus and herpes zoster;
The method of application of the ointment "Acyclovir Hexal"
The ointment is indicated to be applied five times a day to the affected areas of the skin, while capturing the bordering surface. The procedure must be carried out with cleanly washed hands or a cotton swab to avoid exacerbation of infection. "Acyclovir ointment" is distributed evenly, in a thin layer. Treatment should be continued until a crust forms on the herpes vesicles. The duration of therapy is from 5 to 10 days.
The use of the drug should begin at that moment, as soon as the first signs of the disease appear (itching, burning, redness, tingling) of the skin surface. The sooner treatment is started, the faster the rash will disappear. It is not recommended to apply the product to the area of the mucous membranes of the mouth and eyes in order to avoid local severe inflammation.
In case of genital herpes, it is necessary to exclude sexual contacts or use condoms during treatment. Unprotected sex is dangerous infection of a healthy partner.
Special recommendations
Careful use of the drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding is recommended. During this period, the drug "Acyclovir ointment" is prescribed in exceptional cases, when the disease is severe and threatens a significant deterioration in the health of the expectant mother.
Prolonged and repeated treatment of patients with a weak immune system leads to the emergence of strains of viruses. They are not able to respond to the effect of the drug. In most cases, a lack of viral thymidine kinase is observed.
Caution is required in applying the ointment to people with impaired renal function, to elderly patients. During treatment with Acyclovir, the concentration of blood urea and plasma creatine should be monitored. During the period of use of the drug, it is useful to drink more fluid.
The simultaneous use of immune stimulants and Acyclovir enhances the effect of the latter. In the case of taking nephrotoxic drugs, the risk of kidney function deterioration increases. With high individual sensitivity to the drug, it is recommended to stop its use.
Adverse reactions
Adverse reactions of the drug include: peeling of the skin, dryness, hyperemia, allergic dermatitis. If the ointment enters the mucous membranes, their inflammation is observed.
Before using a medical product, you should carefully read the instructions for use, as well as consult with your doctor.