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ACYCLOVIR (UNIVIR) TABS 200MG 30’S

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SKU:

UNVA002

Description

UNIVIR 200 mg Tablets (Pack of 30)

Manufacturer: Univir is a brand of acyclovir tablets produced by various pharmaceutical companies, including Universal Corporation Limited. (amsp.africa)

Presentation: Each pack contains 30 tablets, each containing 200 mg of acyclovir.

🧪 Mechanism of Action

Acyclovir is a synthetic purine nucleoside analogue that inhibits viral DNA replication. It is selectively activated by the herpes simplex virus (HSV)-encoded enzyme thymidine kinase, which converts acyclovir into acyclovir monophosphate. This monophosphate is further converted into diphosphate by cellular guanylate kinase and into triphosphate by a number of cellular enzymes. The triphosphate form inhibits viral DNA polymerase and terminates the growing DNA chain. (DailyMed)

💊 Indications

UNIVIR 200 mg Tablets are indicated for the treatment and suppression of infections caused by herpes simplex viruses, including:

• Genital herpes: Both initial and recurrent episodes.(Healthline)
• Herpes labialis: Cold sores.
• Herpes zoster: Shingles.(Drugs.com)
• Chickenpox: Varicella.(VIA Global Health)
• Herpetic keratitis: Eye infections.(WebMD)
• Herpes simplex encephalitis: Brain infection. (amsp.africa)

💊 Dosage and Administration

• General dosing: 200 mg taken orally every 4 hours, five times a day, for 5 days.(Healthline)
• Herpes zoster (shingles): 800 mg taken orally every 4 hours, five times a day, for 7 to 10 days.(Healthline)
• Chickenpox: 800 mg taken orally four times a day for 5 days.(Healthline)
• Genital herpes (initial episode): 200 mg taken orally every 4 hours, five times a day, for 10 days.(Healthline)
• Genital herpes (recurrent episodes): 200 mg taken orally every 4 hours, five times a day, for 5 days.
• Suppression of recurrent genital herpes: 400 mg taken orally twice a day for up to 12 months. (Healthline)

⚠️ Contraindications

UNIVIR 200 mg Tablets are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to acyclovir or any component of the formulation. (Medicines.org.uk)

🧪 Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption: Acyclovir is well absorbed after oral administration.
• Distribution: Widely distributed in body fluids and tissues, including the cerebrospinal fluid.
• Metabolism: Minimal metabolism; primarily excreted unchanged in the urine.
• Elimination half-life: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours in patients with normal renal function.

💊 Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting(VIA Global Health)
• Headache
• Diarrhea(Healthline)

Serious adverse reactions can occur, especially in patients with renal impairment or those receiving high doses. These may include:

• Renal toxicity(DailyMed)
• Neurological effects such as confusion, seizures, and hallucinations
• Hematological abnormalities

🧾 Storage

• Storage conditions: Store at room temperature (20–25°C) in a dry place, protected from light.
• Shelf life: Use within the expiration date indicated on the packaging.(amsp.africa)

🏥 Additional Information

• Hydration: Ensure adequate hydration during treatment to minimize the risk of renal complications.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of renal function is recommended during therapy.
• Pregnancy Category: Category B. (Medicines.org.uk)

Note: This information is provided for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before initiating treatment with UNIVIR 200 mg Tablets.