Acivir 400 DT Tablet (Acyclovir) – Antiviral Treatment for Herpes Infections

Acivir 400 DT Tablet is a dispersible antiviral medication containing Acyclovir, used to treat various herpes virus infections including cold sores (herpes labialis), genital herpes, shingles (herpes zoster), and chickenpox. This 400mg dispersible tablet formulation offers enhanced convenience for patients who have difficulty swallowing regular tablets. The DT (dispersible tablet) form dissolves easily in water while maintaining the therapeutic effectiveness of standard tablets. Acivir works by stopping viral replication, helping to clear infections faster and reduce painful symptoms when started at the first sign of an outbreak.

Uses of Acivir 400 DT Tablet:

• Treatment of cold sores (oral herpes)
• Management of genital herpes outbreaks
• Therapy for shingles (herpes zoster)
• Treatment of chickenpox in adults and children
• Suppression of recurrent herpes infections

Benefits of Acivir 400 DT Tablet:

• Convenient dispersible form – easy to administer
• Effective against multiple herpes viruses (HSV-1, HSV-2, VZV)
• Reduces healing time of herpes lesions
• Decreases pain and discomfort during outbreaks
• May prevent frequent recurrences when used as suppressive therapy

Side Effects of Acivir 400 DT Tablet:

• Headache (most common)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Skin rash

Most side effects are mild and temporary. Consult your doctor if persistent or severe.

How to Use Acivir 400 DT Tablet?

Dissolve the tablet in a glass of water and drink immediately. Can be taken with or without food, but maintaining consistent timing improves effectiveness. For best results, start treatment at first symptom of an outbreak. Stay well-hydrated during therapy. Complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve earlier. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered unless close to next dose time – never double dose.

How Acivir 400 DT Tablet Works?

Acivir 400 DT Tablet contains Acyclovir which converts to its active triphosphate form in infected cells. It works by competitively inhibiting viral DNA polymerase, incorporating into viral DNA to cause chain termination. This action stops the herpes virus from multiplying and spreading to healthy cells, allowing your immune system to control the infection while symptoms improve.

Safety Advice

• Kidney Function: Requires dose adjustment in renal impairment
• Pregnancy: Generally not recommended unless absolutely necessary
• Breastfeeding: Consult doctor – may pass into breast milk
• Elderly Patients: May need lower doses due to reduced kidney function
• Hydration: Maintain adequate fluid intake (8-10 glasses daily)
• Driving: May cause dizziness – assess tolerance first

What If You Missed a Dose?

If you forget to take Acivir, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Never take two doses together to make up for a missed one.

FAQs:

Q1: How should I prepare the 400mg dispersible tablet?

Place tablet in half glass of water, allow to dissolve completely (2-3 minutes), then stir and drink immediately. Rinse glass with more water and drink to ensure full dose.

Q2: Does Acivir 400 DT cure herpes infections?

No, it controls symptoms and reduces outbreaks but doesn’t eliminate the virus from your body. The herpes virus remains dormant in nerve cells between outbreaks.

Q3: How quickly does Acivir 400 DT work for cold sores?

When taken at the first tingling sensation, Acivir can reduce healing time by 1-2 days. Maximum benefit occurs when treatment begins within 24 hours of symptom onset.

Q4: Can I drink alcohol while taking Acivir?

Alcohol doesn’t directly affect the medication’s action but may increase side effects like dizziness and dehydration. Moderate consumption is generally acceptable but consult your doctor.

Q5: What should I do in case of overdose?

Seek immediate medical attention if you take too much Acivir. Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, confusion, and in severe cases, kidney problems.

Q6: How long should I take Acivir for shingles?

Treatment typically lasts 7-10 days for shingles. Those with weakened immunity may need longer treatment as directed by their doctor.

Q7: Can children take Acivir 400 DT?

Can be used for chickenpox in children aged 2+ years, but dosage is weight-based. The 400mg strength is typically for adults and older children – consult pediatrician.

Q8: Does Acivir prevent herpes transmission?

While it reduces transmission risk, it doesn’t eliminate it. Always practice safe sex using condoms and avoid contact during active outbreaks.

Q9: Why is hydration important during treatment?

Adequate water intake helps prevent kidney complications. Aim for 8-10 glasses daily unless contraindicated.

Q10: What if I experience severe side effects?

Stop taking Acivir and seek immediate medical help if you experience severe rash, difficulty breathing, unusual bruising/bleeding, or neurological symptoms.