Acyclovir triphosphate inhibits viral DNA synthesis by two mechanisms: competitive inhibition of the viral DNA polymerase and by binding to the DNA template as an irreversible complex..
Acyclovir is available in oral, intravenous, and topical formulations. Acyclovir diffuses into most tissues and body fluids to produce concentrations that are 50-100% of those in serum. Cerebrospinal fluid concentrations are 50% of serum values.
Clinical Uses: Oral acyclovir is effective for treatment of primary infection and recurrences of genital and labial herpes. Intravenous acyclovir is the treatment of choice for herpes simplex encephalitis, neonatal HSV infection and for severe primary, recurrent HSV genital and labial infections and for those who cannot ingest oral pills
Adverse Reactions: Acyclovir is generally well tolerated. Nausea, diarrhea, and headache have occasionally been reported. IV infusion may be associated with renal insufficiency or neurologic toxicity.
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