Acyclovir — brands & medicines in Pakistan
Pakistan mein Acyclovir ke 2 brands available hain. Drug class: Antiviral (Nucleoside Analogue). Neeche se koi bhi brand select karein aur uses, dosage, side effects aur price dekhein.
Quick Answer
Acyclovir is a antiviral (nucleoside analogue) used in Pakistan for Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1 cold sores / HSV-2 genital herpes), Herpes Zoster / Shingles (Daad — chickenpox reactivation), Varicella (chickenpox — immunocompromised patients). Available as 2 brands. Prescription required. Always confirm dose with a doctor or pharmacist.
What is Acyclovir?
Acyclovir is a antiviral (nucleoside analogue) used in Pakistan for a range of medical conditions. Doctors and pharmacists in Pakistan recognize Acyclovir under multiple brand names — currently 2 listed on PakVita (2 tablets). The information below is a synthesis from DRAP-registered medicine entries, BNF, and WHO Essential Medicines references.
Common indications
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1 cold sores / HSV-2 genital herpes)
- Herpes Zoster / Shingles (Daad — chickenpox reactivation)
- Varicella (chickenpox — immunocompromised patients)
- Suppressive therapy — prevention of HSV recurrence in immunocompromised
- Herpes Encephalitis (IV form — life-threatening brain infection)
- Eczema herpeticum
- Genital Herpes — treatment and suppression (HSV-2)
- Herpes Labialis — cold sores
Indication and dose vary by medical condition, age, weight, and other factors. Always confirm with a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting.
Typical dosage
As prescribed — dose and frequency vary by indication; adequate hydration essential
This is a general adult guidance pattern based on the manufacturer's label for one of the Acyclovir brands listed below. Children, elderly patients, pregnant women, and people with kidney or liver impairment usually need different dosing — confirm with your doctor.
Side effects
Common (usually mild)
- Nausea (ji machlana)
- Vomiting (qai)
- Diarrhea (dast)
- Headache (sar dard)
- Dizziness (chakkar)
- Headache
Serious — stop and see a doctor
- Nephrotoxicity / crystalluria (kidney damage — especially with dehydration)
- Neurotoxicity — confusion, tremor (especially in renal impairment)
- Reversible renal impairment (high oral or IV doses)
- Thrombophlebitis (IV route)
Important warnings
- Do not take Acyclovir if you are allergic to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any ingredient in the tablet
- Ensure adequate fluid intake
- Dose reduction required in renal impairment — kidney function testing is necessary
- Does not cure herpes — virus remains latent; suppresses replication only
- Transmission still possible even on suppressive therapy — inform partner
- Valacyclovir / Valtrex allergy — do not use
Conditions treated
Acyclovir brands in Pakistan (2)
Click any brand to see full uses, dosage, side effects, prices, and warnings.
Frequently asked questions
What is Acyclovir used for in Pakistan?
Acyclovir is commonly used for Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1 cold sores / HSV-2 genital herpes), Herpes Zoster / Shingles (Daad — chickenpox reactivation), Varicella (chickenpox — immunocompromised patients), Suppressive therapy — prevention of HSV recurrence in immunocompromised, and other indications. It belongs to the antiviral (nucleoside analogue) drug class.
What is the typical dosage of Acyclovir?
Typical adult dosing is described by manufacturers as: "As prescribed — dose and frequency vary by indication; adequate hydration essential". Always confirm dose, duration, and timing with a qualified doctor or pharmacist — dose depends on indication, weight, age, kidney/liver function, and other medications.
What are the common side effects of Acyclovir?
Common side effects include Nausea (ji machlana), Vomiting (qai), Diarrhea (dast), Headache (sar dard), Dizziness (chakkar), Headache. Most are mild and resolve as the body adjusts. Stop the medicine and contact a doctor if side effects are severe, persistent, or include allergic symptoms (rash, swelling, breathing difficulty).
When should I stop Acyclovir and see a doctor?
Stop Acyclovir and seek urgent medical care if you experience: Nephrotoxicity / crystalluria (kidney damage — especially with dehydration); Neurotoxicity — confusion, tremor (especially in renal impairment); Reversible renal impairment (high oral or IV doses); Thrombophlebitis (IV route). These are serious signs that need immediate attention.
Is Acyclovir available without a prescription in Pakistan?
Prescription required.
What brands of Acyclovir are available in Pakistan?
2 brands of Acyclovir are listed on PakVita: 2 tablets. Browse the brand list below and click any name for prices, dosage, and full information.
Sources
- DRAP Registered Drug Products Database — Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan
- British National Formulary (BNF) — BMJ Group & Pharmaceutical Press
- WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, 23rd ed. — World Health Organization