acyclomax 200mg tablet - Acyclovir (200mg) medicine

Acivir 200 DT Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Roussel Laboratories Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 25, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk ⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: High
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 25, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Decreased urination or no urination
  • Confusion, hallucinations, or seizures
  • Severe abdominal pain or blood in vomit
  • Swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is acyclomax 200mg tablet used for?

This medicine is an antiviral used to treat herpes infections, including genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chickenpox. It works by stopping the virus from multiplying. Take it exactly as prescribed, usually multiple times a day, and drink plenty of water.

  • Generic Name: Acyclovir
  • Manufacturer: Roussel Laboratories Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 acyclomax 200mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एक एंटीवायरल टैबलेट है जिसका उपयोग हर्पीस सिंप्लेक्स वायरस और वैरिसेला-ज़ोस्टर वायरस के कारण होने वाले संक्रमणों के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। इसका उपयोग जननांग दाद, ठंडे घाव, दाद (शिंगल्स), और चेचक के इलाज में किया जाता है। यह दवा वायरस को शरीर में फैलने से रोकती है, जिससे घाव जल्दी भरते हैं और दर्द कम होता है। यह दवा हर्पीस का इलाज नहीं है, लेकिन लक्षणों को कम करने और बार-बार होने वाले प्रकोपों को रोकने में मदद करती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में सिरदर्द, मतली, उल्टी, दस्त, और पेट दर्द शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और अपने आप ठीक हो जाते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन गुर्दे की समस्या, भ्रम, मतिभ्रम, दौरे, और एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया हो सकती है। यदि आपको पेशाब कम आना, सूजन, या सांस लेने में कठिनाई हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। खुराक न छोड़ें और बेहतर महसूस होने पर भी कोर्स पूरा करें। दिन भर पर्याप्त पानी पिएं। गुर्दे की बीमारी हो तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। अन्य दवाओं के बारे में डॉक्टर को जानकारी दें। शराब न पिएं। चक्कर आ सकते हैं, इसलिए वाहन न चलाएं। गर्भावस्था या स्तनपान के दौरान डॉक्टर से सलाह लें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 acyclomax 200mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Genital herpes","description":"Treats initial and recurrent episodes of genital herpes caused by herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, reducing pain and healing time.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Herpes labialis (cold sores)","description":"Used to treat cold sores on the lips and around the mouth caused by herpes simplex virus.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Herpes zoster (shingles)","description":"Helps reduce pain and speed up healing of shingles rash when started within 72 hours of rash onset.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Varicella (chickenpox)","description":"Used in certain patients to reduce the severity and duration of chickenpox.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Herpes simplex prophylaxis in immunocompromised patients","description":"Prevents recurrent herpes outbreaks in people with weakened immune systems.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Bell's palsy","description":"Sometimes used in combination with corticosteroids, though evidence is mixed.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Molluscum contagiosum","description":"Occasionally used, but not routinely recommended.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Herpes simplex virus infections

Also treats: Varicella-zoster virus infections, Chickenpox, Shingles

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Acyclovir
Brand NameAcivir 400 DT Tablet
ManufacturerRoussel Laboratories Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI INFECTIVES
Action ClassAntiviral (Non-HIV) drugs
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineThe World Health Organization recommends acyclovir for the treatment of genital herpes and for the prevention of recurrent outbreaks in certain populations. It is included in the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines.
ICMR GuidelineThe Indian Council of Medical Research recommends acyclovir for the management of herpes simplex virus infections, including genital herpes and herpes zoster, based on clinical presentation and patient factors.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine with a full glass of water to ensure proper hydration and kidney safety.
2
Start this medicine as soon as possible after symptoms appear, ideally within 72 hours of rash onset for shingles.
3
Do not skip doses; set reminders to take it at evenly spaced intervals.
4
If you have kidney disease, your doctor may adjust your dose; never self-adjust.
5
Report any confusion, hallucinations, or decreased urination immediately.
6
Use condoms during sexual activity to prevent transmission of genital herpes, even while on this medicine.
7
Complete the full prescribed course, even if symptoms improve quickly.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Genital sores or blisters
This medicine is commonly prescribed for genital herpes.
Likely Use
✅
Cold sores on lips
This medicine is used to treat cold sores.
Likely Use
✅
Painful rash with blisters on one side of body
This medicine is used for shingles.
Likely Use
✅
Fever with itchy rash
This medicine may be used for chickenpox in certain patients.
Likely Use
❌
Common cold
This medicine is not effective against common cold viruses.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionAcyclovir is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, but absorption is slow and incomplete. The bioavailability is approximately 15-30%.
DistributionAcyclovir distributes widely into body tissues and fluids, including cerebrospinal fluid, saliva, and vesicular fluid. It crosses the placenta and is excreted in breast milk.
Protein BindingApproximately 9-33% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismAcyclovir is minimally metabolized in the liver. The majority is excreted unchanged in the urine.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life is approximately 2.5 to 3.3 hours in adults with normal kidney function. It is prolonged in patients with renal impairment.
ExcretionPrimarily excreted unchanged in the urine via glomerular filtration and tubular secretion.
Bioavailability15-30%
Onset of ActionImprovement in symptoms may begin within 24-48 hours of starting treatment.
Peak Plasma Time1.5 to 2 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe antiviral effect lasts as long as therapeutic drug levels are maintained, typically requiring dosing every 4 to 8 hours.

How It Works

This medicine is an antiviral that works by entering virus-infected cells and being converted into its active form. It selectively inhibits the replication of herpes viruses by targeting the viral DNA polymerase enzyme. This stops the virus from making more copies of its DNA, thereby controlling the infection.

Mechanism Steps

1
Uptake into infected cells: This medicine enters cells and is preferentially taken up by virus-infected cells.
2
Activation by viral thymidine kinase: Inside infected cells, the viral enzyme thymidine kinase converts acyclovir into acyclovir monophosphate.
3
Conversion to active triphosphate: Cellular enzymes further convert it to acyclovir triphosphate, the active form.
4
Inhibition of viral DNA polymerase: Acyclovir triphosphate competes with natural nucleotides and inhibits viral DNA polymerase, stopping viral DNA chain elongation.
5
Termination of viral DNA chain: Because it lacks a 3'-hydroxyl group, it causes premature chain termination, preventing the virus from replicating.

💡 How to Take acyclomax 200mg tablet

Strength: 200 mg immediate-release dispersible tablet

1Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water.
2You may take it with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.
3If you have a dispersible tablet, you can dissolve it in water or swallow it whole.
4Take it at evenly spaced intervals as prescribed by your doctor.
5Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless your doctor advises.
6Complete the full course even if you feel better.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe dose of this medicine depends on the condition being treated. For genital herpes, the usual dose is 200 mg every 4 hours, five times a day, for 10 days during initial episodes, or 400 mg three times a day for 5 days for recurrent episodes. For herpes zoster, the dose is 800 mg every 4 hours, five times a day, for 7-10 days. For chickenpox, the dose is 800 mg four times a day for 5 days. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may require dose adjustment based on kidney function. Monitor for neurological side effects.
Renal ImpairmentDose adjustment is required in patients with kidney impairment. For creatinine clearance 10-25 mL/min, the dose may be reduced to 200 mg every 12 hours. For creatinine clearance less than 10 mL/min, 200 mg every 24 hours. Consult your doctor for personalized dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is required for liver impairment, but monitor liver function.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is 4 grams (4000 mg) for oral administration.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Water
Drink plenty of water
Helps prevent kidney problems.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of acyclomax 200mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Headache (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. Consult doctor if persistent or severe.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food to reduce nausea. Consult doctor if it continues.
Diarrhea (Common (5-10%))
Stay hydrated. Consult doctor if diarrhea is severe or lasts more than a few days.
Vomiting (Common (5-10%))
Take with food and drink fluids. Consult doctor if vomiting persists.
Stomach pain (Common (5-10%))
Take with food. Consult doctor if pain is severe.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Kidney problems (nephrotoxicity) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice decreased urination, swelling, or fatigue.
Confusion, hallucinations, or seizures (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience confusion, hallucinations, tremors, or seizures.
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Very rare (<0.01%))
Call emergency services if you have rash, itching, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) (Rare (<0.1%))
Report unusual bruising or bleeding to your doctor immediately.
Low white blood cell count (leukopenia) (Rare (<0.1%))
Report signs of infection such as fever, sore throat, or chills to your doctor.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Liver inflammation (hepatitis)
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain to your doctor.
Anemia
Report unusual tiredness or pale skin to your doctor.
Tremors
Seek medical attention if you experience uncontrolled shaking.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Nephrotoxic drugs Major
Probenecid Major
Mycophenolate mofetil Major
Cimetidine Moderate
Theophylline Moderate
Antacids Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., amphotericin B, aminoglycosides, NSAIDs)
  • Probenecid
  • Mycophenolate mofetil

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Cimetidine
  • Theophylline

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may worsen dizziness and stomach upset caused by this medicine. It is best to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any component of the formulation"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Use with caution in patients with kidney disease; dose adjustment may be needed.","Ensure adequate hydration during treatment to prevent kidney damage.","Elderly patients are more prone to neurological side effects such as confusion and hallucinations.","Avoid concurrent use with other nephrotoxic drugs.","This medicine does not cure herpes infections and does not prevent transmission to others.","Practice safe sex to prevent transmission of genital herpes."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Acyclovir is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, headache, and kidney problems. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and may include hemodialysis in severe cases.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes. Do not skip doses or stop early, even if you feel better, because the virus may not be fully controlled. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help protect your kidneys. If you have kidney disease, your doctor may adjust your dose. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you take, especially those that can affect your kidneys, such as NSAIDs or certain antibiotics. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can worsen dizziness and stomach upset. This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy; do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine. Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms. Store it at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are at higher risk of kidney problems and neurological side effects. Dose adjustment based on kidney function is often needed. Ensure adequate hydration.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor. Acyclovir is generally considered safe, but your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon if you are taking this medicine. It is generally safe to continue, but your doctor may adjust the dose based on your kidney function.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine. No specific precautions are usually needed, but maintain good hydration.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated.
🥗
Get adequate rest to support your immune system.
😴
Practice safe sex to prevent transmission of genital herpes.
💧
Avoid sharing personal items like towels or lip balm during outbreaks.
🧘
Manage stress as it can trigger herpes outbreaks.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue. Avoid strenuous exercise if you feel unwell. Stay hydrated during exercise.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Include fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C.
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
Eat a balanced diet to support immune function.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Most people can continue their daily activities.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. Complete the full prescribed course. If you experience serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is generally safe for suppressing recurrent herpes outbreaks. However, prolonged use may rarely lead to kidney problems or viral resistance. Regular monitoring of kidney function is advised for patients on long-term therapy.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Valacyclovir

A prodrug of acyclovir with better bioavailability and less frequent dosing.

Evidence: Well-established
Famciclovir

An alternative antiviral for herpes zoster and genital herpes.

Evidence: Well-established
Topical antivirals

For cold sores, topical acyclovir or penciclovir creams may be used.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There is no vaccine interaction with this medicine. However, live vaccines should be avoided in immunocompromised patients. Consult your doctor.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store it at room temperature and protect it from moisture. If traveling across time zones, adjust dosing times gradually under your doctor&#039;s guidance. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 32-year-old woman with recurrent genital herpes
She was prescribed this medicine for 5 days during an outbreak. She took it exactly as directed and drank plenty of water. Her sores healed within a week, and the pain reduced significantly. She now takes it at the first sign of an outbreak, which shortens the episodes.
💡 Lesson: Early initiation of this medicine can shorten outbreaks and reduce discomfort.
👤 A 65-year-old man with shingles
He started this medicine within 48 hours of the rash appearing. He experienced mild nausea but took it with food, which helped. His rash healed in 10 days, and he had no long-term nerve pain. He was advised to stay hydrated due to his age.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine with food reduces stomach upset, and early treatment can prevent complications like postherpetic neuralgia.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may start feeling better within 24-48 hours, but complete the full course as prescribed.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, you can take it with or without food. Taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: Acyclovir is generally considered safe during pregnancy when clinically indicated. Consult your doctor.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: Take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for acyclomax 200mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure herpes permanently.
    Fact: This medicine controls the symptoms and reduces outbreaks, but it does not cure the infection. The virus remains in the body.
  • Myth: You can stop taking this medicine as soon as you feel better.
    Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed to prevent the infection from worsening or returning.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
    Fact: It is not safe for people allergic to acyclovir or valacyclovir, and dose adjustment is needed for kidney disease.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Acyclovir 200 mg dispersible tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Acivir 200 DT Tablet
  • Zovirax 200 mg Tablet
  • Acyclovir 200 mg Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Acyclovir","class":"Nucleoside analogue","half_life":"2.5-3.3 hours","frequency":"5 times a day","notes":"Requires frequent dosing."},{"medicine":"Valacyclovir","class":"Prodrug of acyclovir","half_life":"2.5-3.3 hours (acyclovir)","frequency":"2-3 times a day","notes":"Better bioavailability, less frequent dosing."},{"medicine":"Famciclovir","class":"Prodrug of penciclovir","half_life":"2-3 hours","frequency":"2-3 times a day","notes":"Alternative for herpes zoster."}]

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