What Is an Acyclovir IV?

Acyclovir intravenous (IV) is one format used for the delivery of this antiviral medication. Taking medications intravenously can allow them to start working more quickly to address the patient’s symptoms. The drug may be given in a hospital or clinic, or patients can be directed on how to infuse it safely at home. It is important to use a slow infusion technique because a sudden flood of medication can cause adverse reactions.

Patients can receive an acyclovir IV for an active outbreak of herpes simplex virus or varicella zoster. These viruses cause conditions like shingles and genital herpes. While the medication will not eliminate the virus in the body, it can decrease the intensity of the outbreak. Taking medication may make the patient more comfortable and can promote rapid healing of the sores to allow patients to return to normal activities more quickly.

Appropriate acyclovir IV dosage can depend on the specific type of infection and the patient’s symptoms. People receive an injection every eight hours, with drug delivery taking around an hour to make sure it is allowed to slowly diffuse into the bloodstream. Patients with a history of bad reactions to the drug or related compounds shouldn’t take it. Side effects like dizziness and gastrointestinal upset can occur. If these are severe or persistent, they may be a sign of an allergy or other bad reaction, in which case the drug may need to be discontinued.

While taking acyclovir IV, patients may be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. The drug can also be delivered in a fluid solution to disperse it more effectively. Patients who have not taken the medication before may want to plan on resting after a dose to see how they react to it. Unexpected reactions like fatigue and soreness may make it difficult to engage in planned activities.

An acyclovir IV may be recommended for other purposes not specifically approved by regulatory authorities. Off-label uses of antiviral medications may be based on experience with similar infections in other patients or research on experimental uses of drugs. These can sometimes be beneficial for patients who don’t respond to other treatments. It is important to be aware that the acyclovir IV may not be covered by insurance if the use is not considered to be medically indicated, in which case the off-label use may need to be paid for out of pocket.