Acyclovir is used to treat herpes virus infections (e.g. HSV and VZV) but not CMV infections.
Acyclovir is also used for prophylaxis in transplantation protocols for patients who are immunocompromised.
Monitor serum creatinine and monitor for neurotoxicity.
Mycophenolate can increase serum concentrations of acyclovir.
Antimicrobial class: Antiviral. Nucleoside analogue.
Pregnancy category: B
Average serum half life: 3 hours
CSF penetration: Therapeutic
Urine penetration: Therapeutic
For indications when oral acyclovir can be used, valacyclovir is the pro-drug, which is more bioavailable with more convenient dosing.
Antimicrobials
