Therapy for herpesviral infections (HSV and VZV) including encephalitis.
Prophylaxis of herpesviral infections if recurrent disease or immunocompromised.
Follow SCr as appropriate.
Check urine for crystals if AKI suspected.
GI upset
Phlebitis
Increased SCr
AKI from crystal nephropathy
Mycophenolate can increase the acyclovir concentration.
May diminish efficacy of zoster or varicella vaccine.
For oral indications, valacyclovir is the pro-drug, which is more bioavailable with more convenient dosing.
Antimicrobial class: Antiviral. Nucleoside analogue.
Pregnancy category: B
Average serum half life: 3 hours
Distribution: Widely distributed (i.e. brain, kidney, lungs, liver, spleen, muscle, uterus, vagina, CSF)
CSF penetration: Therapeutic (~50% of plasma concentrations)
Urine penetration: Therapeutic