Acyclovir is commonly referred as antiherpes virus agent. It inhibitis viral DNA synthesis. The immunosuppressive agent mycophenolate mofetil potentiates the antiherpes activity of acyclovir.

INDICATIONS: Primary and recurrent genital herps, HSV proctitis, genital herpes suppression, zoster, veracella, anti-CMV prophylaxis in organ transplants.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Pre-existing renal insufficiency, hypersensitivity, seizures, depression.

SAFETY PROFILE : Rapid infusion with acyclovir should be avoided and adequate hydration should be maintained during therapy to avoid the development of renal insufficiency and neurotoxical toxicity.

ADVERS EFFECTS: Acyclovir is generally well tolerated. Oral acyclovir many produce nausea, diarrhea, rash of headache and rarely renal insufficiency and neurotoxicity. Principal dose limiting toxicities of intravenous acyclovir are renal insufficiency and central nervous system adverse effects like altered sensorium, tremor, myoclonius, delirum and /or extrapyramidal signs.

DRUG INTREACTIONS: Severe somnolence and lethargy may occur with combinations of zidovudine and acyclovir. Concomitant cyclosporine and other nephrotoxic agents enhance risk of nephrotoxicity. Probenecid decreases the renal clearance and prolong plasma ½ life of elimination. Acyclovir may decrease the renal clearance of methotraxte.