Aciclovir 400mg Tablets for Genital Herpes
Aciclovir helps treat outbreaks of genital herpes and may also be prescribed to help reduce recurrent episodes where appropriate.
Complete a quick online clinical assessment and one of our qualified UK prescribers will review your information before treatment is supplied.
• Quick online clinical assessment
• Reviewed by a qualified UK prescriber
• Treatment supplied where clinically appropriate
• Prompt, discreet UK delivery
Clinical Information
Aciclovir 400mg is a potent, systemic antiviral prescription medicine widely utilized in the UK to manage infections caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). It acts by targeting viral DNA replication, halting the virus from multiplying within the body. While it is not a permanent cure for HSV, it significantly reduces the severity and duration of outbreaks, accelerates the healing of blisters, and relieves accompanying stinging, pain, and itching.
Aciclovir (400mg Oral Tablets)
Shortens the duration and limits the viral shedding of acute herpes outbreaks.
All packages are shipped via plain, secure, and unbranded packaging.
Dosing & Administration Guide
To maximize therapeutic results and stop viral multiplication quickly, adhere strictly to the following parameters:
- Immediate Action: Initiate treatment at the absolute first warning sign of an outbreak (such as tingling, burning, itching, or the emergence of small bumps). Delayed treatment reduces clinical efficacy.
- Standard Outbreak Dosage: Take one 400mg tablet three times daily (evenly spaced throughout the day, e.g., morning, afternoon, and night) for a mandatory course of 5 continuous days.
- Administration: Swallow tablets whole with a large glass of water. It can be taken safely with or without meals.
- Hydration Protocol: Ensure you maintain high fluid intake throughout the day while taking Aciclovir to protect kidney function and help clear the medication smoothly.
Important Patient Safety Details
Review these critical medical contraindications and warnings before beginning your antiviral course.
- Renal & Kidney Function: Aciclovir is processed primarily through the kidneys. If you suffer from reduced kidney function or are elderly, your dosage may require adjusting by a doctor. Chronic dehydration increases renal side effects.
- Common Side Effects: Generally well tolerated, though minor transient effects like headache, dizziness, mild nausea, diarrhoea, or increased skin sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity) may occur.
- Viral Transmission Safety: Aciclovir limits the outbreak, but it does not completely prevent viral transmission to others. Avoid sexual contact from the moment early symptoms appear until all blisters and sores have completely healed and formed dry scabs.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Please inform our medical prescribers if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or actively breastfeeding so a careful clinical risk-benefit analysis can be conducted.
Genital Herpes Treatment: Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does Aciclovir clear a genital herpes outbreak?
Aciclovir begins blocking the viral replication process within hours of taking your first dose. However, outward physical healing relies heavily on how early you start treatment. If initiated during the early "tingling" prodrome stage, it can prevent full blisters from forming. If started after sores appear, it typically reduces the total duration of the outbreak by several days, helping skin heal within 5 to 7 days.
Can I take Aciclovir every day to completely prevent future herpes outbreaks?
Yes. While a 5-day course is used to treat acute active outbreaks (episodic therapy), individuals who suffer from frequent recurrences (typically 6 or more outbreaks per year) can be prescribed a long-term daily regimen known as suppressive therapy. This involves taking lower doses daily to keep the virus dormant, lowering outbreak frequency by up to 80% and significantly reducing the risk of partner transmission.
What happens if I miss a dose of Aciclovir during an active outbreak?
If you miss a scheduled tablet, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed tablet completely and continue with your regular schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as keeping an even level of medication in your system is what provides optimal antiviral activity.