Acyclovir is an antiviral against herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 as well as varicella-zoster virus (herpes zoster and chickenpox). It is indicated for the following conditions:
Acyclovir is usually taken by mouth as a tablet. It is also available as a skin cream, which is applied to the skin, eye ointment, and an injectable formulation.
Age | Dosage |
Adult | To the eye as 3% ointment Apply inside the lower conjunctival sac 5 times daily every 4 hours. Continue treatment for at least 3 days upon the completion of healing. |
Age | Dosage |
Adult | Oral – 800 mg daily in 2-4 divided doses and may reduce to 400-600 mg daily. Conditions should be reassessed every 6-12 months For mild or infrequent recurrences: 200 mg 5 times daily for 5 days, preferably begin during the prodromal period |
Age | Dosage |
Adult / Child above 2 years | Oral – 200 mg 5 times daily, usually every 4 hours while awake for 5-10 days. For severely immunocompromised patients: 400 mg 5 times daily for 5 days |
Age | Dosage |
Adult | Oral – 800 mg 5 times daily for 7-10 days |
Age | Dosage |
Adult | Oral – 800 mg 4 or 5 times daily for 5-7 days |
Child above 2 years | 20 mg/kg (up to a maximum of 800 mg), 4 times daily for 5 days |
Age | Dosage |
Adult | Topical as 5% ointment / cream Apply 5 or 6 times daily for 5-10 days, preferably begin in the prodromal period. |
Common dosing schedule:
Some common medications Acyclovir may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Acyclovir is a prescription-only medicine and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Acyclovir in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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