Aciclovir (ACV), also known as acyclovir, is an antiviral medication. It is primarily used for the treatment of herpes simplex virus infections, chickenpox, and shingles.Other uses include prevention of cytomegalovirus infections following transplant and severe complications of Epstein-Barr virus infection.It can be taken by mouth, applied as a cream, or injected.

Function

Aciclovir is indicated for the treatment of HSV and VZV infections, including:

Genital herpes simplex (treatment and prophylaxis)

Herpes simplex labialis (cold sores)

Herpes zoster (shingles)

Acute chickenpox in immunocompromised patients

Herpes simplex encephalitis

Acute mucocutaneous HSV infections in immunocompromised patients

Herpes simplex keratitis (ocular herpes)

Herpes simplex blepharitis (not to be mistaken with ocular herpes)

Prophylaxis against herpesviruses in immunocompromised patients (such as patients undergoing cancer chemotherapy)