Antimicrobials
Acyclovir

Acyclovir

Restricted

None
Poor (Less than 20%)
See Additional Information

Spectrum of Activity

Dosing

General Information

  • Therapy for herpesviral infections (HSV and VZV) including encephalitis.
  • Prophylaxis of herpesviral infections if recurrent disease or immunocompromised.
  • Follow SCr as appropriate.
  • Check urine for crystals if AKI suspected.
  • Liver enzymes, CBC as appropriate.
  • GI upset

  • Phlebitis

  • Increased SCr

  • AKI from crystal nephropathy

  • Mycophenolate - concentrations of both drugs may be increased when used together.
  • Tenofovir - concentrations of both drugs may be increased when used together.
  • Varicella or Zoster Vaccine - may diminish efficacy of the zoster or varicella vaccine.
  • Zidovudine - acyclovir may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Zidovudine.

For oral indications, valacyclovir is the pro-drug, which is more bioavailable with more convenient dosing.

IV formulation restricted to Infectious Diseases (ID)/Antimicrobial Stewardship Program (ASP) and Oncology/Critical Care within 48 hours of being dispensed.

Cost:

  • PO: $0.18/Dose; $2.70/5 Days
  • IV: $5.06/Dose; $75.98/5 Days

Antimicrobial class: Antiviral agent. Nucleoside analogue.

Pregnancy category: B

Average serum half life: 2.5 hours

Urine penetration: Therapeutic

CSF penetration: Therapeutic