ANTIVIRAL

Physiological Action

- Infers w/DNA synthesis & inhibits viral multiplication
- Prevents the virus from replicating

Uses
- Suppression therapy of genital herpes
- Treatment of Varicella zoster in immunocompromised patients

Drug Name

ACYCLOVIR
-Zovirax
Details

*route and amounts vary with
disease is being treated
Dosage

PO: 200-1600 mg
Usually every 4 hours or b.i.d.
IV: 5-10 mg/kg over an hour
every 8 hours

Desired Effect

-manage herpes outbreaks, herpes goes dormant
-V. Zoster is killed or goes dormant

Common Side Effects

Increased BUN, creatinine
Decrease WBC
Adverse Side Effects

Seizure
Hallucinations
Acute Renal failure
Anaphylaxis
Nephrotoxicity
Contraindications

- hypersensitive patients
- careful with nephrotoxic drugs
- preggo is a NO NO

Nursing Considerations (before, during, & after administration)

- DONT give I.M. or subcutaneously
- Hydrate 2 hours prior infusion
- Start immediately after signs & symptoms
- monitor renal function
- monitor for encephalopathic changes

Patient Teaching

- Does NOT cure, manages breakouts
- Take drug even if fell better
- Drug will NOT prevent spread of infection
- AVOID sexual contact while lesions are visible
- Teach about Herpes
- DO NOT breastfeed if lesions near