Axovir 250mg Injection: Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Decreased urine output or no urine output
- Blood in urine or swelling of the face, hands, or feet
- Confusion, hallucinations, or unusual behaviour
- Seizures or muscle twitching
- Severe allergic reaction with swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing
- Widespread rash with blisters or peeling skin
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, or dark urine
- Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting
- Chest pain or irregular heartbeat during infusion
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is axovir 250mg injection used for?
This medicine is an intravenous antiviral containing acyclovir 250 mg. It is used to treat serious viral infections caused by herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, and herpes B virus. It works by stopping the virus from copying its DNA. It is given by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic, usually every 8 to 12 hours, and the dose is adjusted based on kidney function. Common side effects include injection site pain, nausea, and headache. Serious side effects include kidney damage and neurological problems. It must only be used under medical supervision.
- Generic Name: Acyclovir (250mg)
- Manufacturer: Samarth Life Sciences Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 axovir 250mg injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा एक एंटीवायरल इंजेक्शन है जिसमें एसाइक्लोविर 250 मिलीग्राम सक्रिय घटक के रूप में मौजूद होता है। इसका उपयोग हर्पीस सिंप्लेक्स वायरस और वैरिसेला-ज़ोस्टर वायरस के कारण होने वाले गंभीर संक्रमणों के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह दवा वायरस के डीएनए को बनने से रोकती है, जिससे वायरस शरीर में नहीं फैल पाता। इसका उपयोग हर्पीस एन्सेफलाइटिस, गंभीर जननांग हर्पीस, इम्यूनोकॉम्प्रोमाइज्ड रोगियों में शिंगल्स और चिकनपॉक्स, और नवजात शिशुओं में हर्पीस संक्रमण के लिए किया जाता है। यह दवा केवल अस्पताल या क्लिनिक में डॉक्टर या नर्स द्वारा नस के माध्यम से दी जाती है। इसे घर पर स्वयं नहीं लगाया जा सकता। खुराक रोगी की उम्र, वजन, गुर्दे की कार्यप्रणाली और संक्रमण के प्रकार के आधार पर डॉक्टर द्वारा तय की जाती है।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में इंजेक्शन लगाने की जगह पर दर्द, लालिमा या सूजन, मतली, उल्टी, दस्त, सिरदर्द और चक्कर आना शामिल हैं। कुछ रोगियों को खुजली या दाने हो सकते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव कम होते हैं लेकिन इनमें गुर्दे की समस्या, पेशाब में खून आना, भ्रम, मतिभ्रम, कंपन या दौरे शामिल हो सकते हैं। ये समस्याएँ विशेष रूप से बुजुर्ग रोगियों या गुर्दे की बीमारी वाले लोगों में अधिक होती हैं। गंभीर एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया जैसे चेहरे, होंठ या गले में सूजन, सांस लेने में कठिनाई या शरीर पर छाले पड़ना दुर्लभ है लेकिन आपातकालीन है। अगर आपको कोई भी दुष्प्रभाव परेशान करे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर या नर्स को बताएं।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल प्रशिक्षित स्वास्थ्यकर्मी द्वारा ही दी जानी चाहिए। अपने डॉक्टर को बताएं कि आपको गुर्दे या लीवर की कोई बीमारी है या आप कोई अन्य दवा ले रहे हैं। इलाज के दौरान पर्याप्त पानी पिएं जब तक कि डॉक्टर ने तरल पदार्थ प्रतिबंधित न किया हो। इस दवा के इलाज के दौरान स्तनपान कराने से पहले डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। अगर आपको चक्कर, भ्रम या नींद आती है तो वाहन न चलाएं और मशीनरी न चलाएं। गुर्दे की कार्यप्रणाली और रक्त की जांच के लिए नियमित फॉलो-अप कराएं। अगर कोई खुराक छूट जाए तो तुरंत नर्स या डॉक्टर को बताएं, स्वयं दोबारा खुराक न लें। दवा को निर्देशानुसार स्टोर करें और एक्सपायरी डेट के बाद इस्तेमाल न करें।
💊 axovir 250mg injection Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Herpes simplex encephalitis","description":"This medicine is a first-line treatment for inflammation of the brain caused by herpes simplex virus, given intravenously to reduce brain damage and death.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Severe or disseminated herpes simplex infection","description":"Used for severe genital herpes, herpes proctitis, or widespread herpes infection in immunocompromised patients who cannot take oral therapy.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Varicella-zoster virus infection in immunocompromised patients","description":"Treats shingles or chickenpox in patients with weakened immunity, including transplant recipients and those on chemotherapy.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Herpes simplex infection in neonates","description":"Used to treat newborns with herpes simplex virus infection affecting the skin, eyes, mouth, or internal organs.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Mucocutaneous herpes simplex in immunocompromised patients","description":"Given intravenously when oral therapy is not possible or has failed.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Herpes B virus infection","description":"Used in suspected or confirmed herpes B virus infection, which can occur after a monkey bite or scratch.","evidence":"Limited but accepted"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Prevention of cytomegalovirus infection in transplant patients","description":"Sometimes used off-label, though other antivirals are usually preferred.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Epstein-Barr virus infection in severe cases","description":"Occasionally used off-label for severe EBV-related disease, but evidence is weak.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Herpes simplex virus infections (including encephalitis and severe mucocutaneous disease)
Also treats: Varicella-zoster virus infections in immunocompromised patients, Neonatal herpes simplex virus infection, Herpes B virus infection
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Acyclovir (250mg) |
| Brand Name | axovir 250mg injection |
| Manufacturer | Samarth Life Sciences Pvt Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI INFECTIVES |
| Action Class | Antiviral (Non-HIV) drugs |
| Route of Administration | Parenteral (intravenous infusion) |
| Storage | Store the lyophilised powder or ready-to-use solution as directed on the label, usually at room temperature between 15°C and 25°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not freeze unless the manufacturer specifies otherwise. Once reconstituted or diluted, use the solution within the time recommended by the manufacturer, typically within 12 to 24 hours if stored at room temperature or refrigerated. Keep out of reach of children. |
| Shelf Life | The shelf life is typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture for the unreconstituted product. Once reconstituted or diluted, the shelf life is much shorter, usually 12 to 24 hours depending on the diluent and storage conditions. Always check the expiry date on the vial and follow the manufacturer's instructions. |
| WHO Guideline | The World Health Organization recommends acyclovir for the treatment of herpes simplex virus infections, including neonatal herpes and herpes encephalitis, and for varicella-zoster virus infections in immunocompromised patients. The WHO Essential Medicines List includes acyclovir as an antiviral medicine. Always follow your local guidelines and your doctor's advice. |
| ICMR Guideline | The Indian Council of Medical Research recognises acyclovir as a standard treatment for herpes simplex virus infections and varicella-zoster virus infections in immunocompromised patients. The ICMR guidelines recommend intravenous acyclovir for severe infections and oral acyclovir for milder cases. The dose and duration should be individualised based on the patient's condition and kidney function. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine is an antiviral nucleoside analogue. After entering the body, acyclovir is converted inside virus-infected cells into its active triphosphate form. The first step of this conversion is carried out by a viral enzyme called thymidine kinase, which is present only in herpes-infected cells. This is why the medicine is selective for infected cells and has relatively little effect on healthy cells. The active triphosphate form then competes with the natural building block deoxyguanosine triphosphate and is incorporated into the growing viral DNA chain. Because acyclovir lacks the chemical group needed to continue the DNA chain, the chain is terminated. This stops the virus from copying its DNA and prevents it from multiplying. Acyclovir also directly inhibits the viral DNA polymerase enzyme. The result is a reduction in viral load, which helps the body's immune system control the infection and allows healing of affected tissues.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take axovir 250mg injection
Strength: This medicine is supplied as a 250 mg strength in a vial for intravenous infusion. It may be available as a lyophilised powder for reconstitution or as a ready-to-use solution. The concentration after reconstitution depends on the volume of diluent used, as directed by the manufacturer.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The dose of this medicine is always individualised by a qualified clinician based on the infection being treated, the patient's age, weight, kidney function, and liver function. For herpes simplex encephalitis, a common adult dose is 10 mg per kilogram of body weight given intravenously every 8 hours for 14 to 21 days. For severe genital herpes or mucocutaneous herpes in immunocompromised patients, a common dose is 5 to 10 mg per kilogram every 8 hours for 5 to 7 days. For varicella-zoster virus infection in immunocompromised patients, a common dose is 10 mg per kilogram every 8 hours for 7 to 10 days. For herpes B virus infection, the dose may be higher and the duration longer. These are general examples only. The exact dose, frequency, and duration must be determined by your doctor. Never adjust the dose yourself. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information for all indications. For neonates and children, the dose is calculated by weight and is always determined by a pediatrician or neonatologist. For neonatal herpes simplex virus infection, a common dose is 20 mg per kilogram every 8 hours for 14 to 21 days, but this must be confirmed by a specialist. Do not attempt to calculate or administer this medicine to a child without specialist supervision. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients are more likely to have reduced kidney function, which can lead to higher blood levels of acyclovir and an increased risk of kidney damage and neurological side effects such as confusion, hallucinations, and seizures. The dose should be adjusted based on kidney function, and kidney function should be monitored closely. Elderly patients should be well hydrated during treatment. The doctor will decide the appropriate dose after assessing kidney function. |
| Renal Impairment | Dose adjustment is required in patients with reduced kidney function. For adults with a creatinine clearance of 25 to 50 millilitres per minute, the usual dose may be given every 12 hours instead of every 8 hours. For creatinine clearance of 10 to 25 millilitres per minute, the dose may be given every 24 hours. For creatinine clearance less than 10 millilitres per minute, the dose may be reduced and given every 24 hours, and haemodialysis may be needed. These are general guidelines only. The exact dose must be determined by a qualified clinician based on the patient's kidney function and the infection being treated. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Mild to moderate liver impairment usually does not require a dose adjustment because acyclovir is mainly eliminated by the kidneys. However, patients with severe liver disease should be monitored closely, and the dose may need to be adjusted if kidney function is also affected. The doctor will decide the appropriate dose after assessing liver and kidney function. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose depends on the indication, the patient's weight, and kidney function. For adults with normal kidney function, doses up to 30 mg per kilogram per day (for example, 10 mg per kilogram every 8 hours) are commonly used for severe infections. Higher doses may be used for herpes B virus infection under specialist supervision. The exact maximum dose must be determined by a qualified clinician. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of axovir 250mg injection
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Amphotericin B | Major | |
| Ciclosporin | Major | |
| Tacrolimus | Major | |
| Mycophenolate mofetil | Major | |
| Zidovudine | Major | |
| Probenecid | Moderate | |
| Cimetidine | Moderate | |
| Aminoglycosides | Moderate | |
| Vancomycin | Moderate | |
| NSAIDs | Moderate |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Amphotericin B
- Ciclosporin
- Tacrolimus
- Mycophenolate mofetil
- Zidovudine
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Probenecid
- Cimetidine
- Nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., aminoglycosides, vancomycin, NSAIDs)
- Theophylline
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may worsen dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion caused by this medicine. It is best to avoid alcohol during treatment, especially if you are also taking other medicines that affect the liver or kidneys. If you drink alcohol regularly, tell your doctor so they can monitor you appropriately.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity or severe allergic reaction to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any component of this medicine","Severely reduced kidney function without appropriate dose adjustment","Dehydration or low blood volume that has not been corrected","Use of other nephrotoxic drugs without careful monitoring"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine must be given only by a healthcare professional.","Ensure adequate hydration before and during treatment to reduce the risk of kidney damage.","Infuse slowly over at least one hour to avoid kidney damage and infusion reactions.","Dose adjustment is required in patients with kidney disease.","Elderly patients are at higher risk of kidney and neurological side effects.","Monitor kidney function and blood counts regularly during treatment.","Avoid use with other kidney-damaging medicines unless necessary and closely monitored.","Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.","Do not drive or operate machinery if you feel dizzy, drowsy, or confused.","Report any signs of allergic reaction, severe skin rash, or neurological symptoms immediately."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Acyclovir passes into breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but because this medicine is given intravenously for serious infections, breastfeeding may need to be temporarily interrupted. Discuss with your doctor before breastfeeding while receiving this medicine.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose with this medicine can cause nausea, vomiting, headache, confusion, hallucinations, tremors, seizures, and kidney failure. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive and includes stopping the infusion, maintaining adequate hydration, and monitoring kidney function, blood counts, and neurological status. Haemodialysis may be considered in severe cases, especially if kidney function is poor, because it can remove acyclovir from the blood. If you suspect an overdose, contact emergency medical services immediately.
⏰ Missed Dose
This medicine is given by a healthcare professional, so a missed dose is unlikely to happen at home. If you miss an appointment for your infusion, contact your doctor or clinic as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not try to self-administer or double the dose. Your doctor will decide the best way to adjust your schedule.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must only be given by a trained healthcare professional. Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or if you are taking any other medicines, especially those that can affect the kidneys. Drink plenty of fluids unless your doctor has told you to restrict fluids. Do not breastfeed during treatment without discussing it with your doctor. Avoid close contact with people who have weakened immunity while you are receiving this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery if you feel dizzy, confused, or sleepy after treatment. Keep all follow-up appointments so your kidney function and blood counts can be checked. If you miss a dose, tell your nurse or doctor as soon as possible; do not try to catch up on your own. Store this medicine as directed by the pharmacy and never use it after the expiry date.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients are at higher risk of kidney damage and neurological side effects from this medicine. Kidney function declines with age, so the dose may need to be reduced. Elderly patients should be well hydrated and monitored closely for confusion, hallucinations, and seizures. Falls risk may increase if dizziness or confusion occurs. Family members should be informed about these risks and should report any changes in behaviour to the medical team.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy, discuss with your doctor before starting this medicine. Acyclovir is generally considered acceptable for use during pregnancy when needed for serious infections, but the decision should be made by your doctor after weighing the benefits and risks. If you become pregnant while receiving this medicine, inform your doctor immediately. Do not stop treatment on your own.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
If you have recently had surgery, tell your surgeon and anaesthetist that you are receiving this medicine. This medicine can affect kidney function, and surgery can also stress the kidneys, so monitoring is important. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your kidney function and fluid balance. Ensure you are well hydrated before and after surgery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Tell your dentist that you are receiving this medicine before any dental procedure. This medicine can cause dizziness and drowsiness, so you may need to avoid driving to and from the dental appointment. If you have kidney problems, your dentist may need to coordinate with your doctor. There is no direct interaction between this medicine and dental anaesthetics, but your overall health should be considered.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise during treatment, especially if you feel dizzy, drowsy, or weak. Light activity such as walking may be fine if you feel up to it. If you have kidney problems, discuss with your doctor before starting any exercise programme. Do not exercise if you have a fever or are feeling unwell. Always stay hydrated during exercise.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine is given in a hospital or clinic, so you will need time off work during treatment. You may feel tired, dizzy, or drowsy after infusions, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you feel normal. Most people can return to work after completing treatment and recovering from the infection. If your job involves close contact with people who have weakened immunity, discuss with your doctor when it is safe to return.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
This medicine is stopped when your doctor decides that the infection has been adequately treated or when it is no longer needed. Do not stop treatment on your own, even if you feel better, because stopping too early can allow the virus to come back. If you experience serious side effects, your doctor may stop the medicine or switch you to a different treatment. Always follow your doctor's instructions about when to stop.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is not common because it is usually given for a limited period. However, prolonged or repeated courses may increase the risk of kidney damage and neurological side effects. Patients who receive multiple courses should have regular kidney function tests and blood counts. Some patients may experience persistent fatigue or weakness after treatment. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms after treatment, report them to your doctor. Long-term antiviral suppression, if needed, is usually done with oral medicines rather than intravenous injections.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
For milder infections or after initial intravenous treatment, oral acyclovir or valacyclovir may be used.
Evidence: Well-establishedFor mild cold sores or genital herpes, topical acyclovir cream may be used, but it is not effective for severe infections.
Evidence: Well-established for mild infectionsPain relief, hydration, and rest are important alongside antiviral treatment.
Evidence: Well-establishedFor acyclovir-resistant infections, medicines such as foscarnet or cidofovir may be used under specialist supervision.
Evidence: Limited but accepted💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There is no vaccine interaction with this medicine. However, if you are due for any vaccination, tell your doctor that you are receiving this medicine. Live vaccines should generally be avoided in people with weakened immunity, but this depends on your overall condition. Discuss with your doctor before receiving any vaccine during or shortly after treatment.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature between 15°C and 25°C
❌ DON'T
Do not freeze unless the manufacturer specifies otherwise
✅ DO
Keep in the original vial and packaging
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
❌ DON'T
Do not store in the bathroom cabinet
✅ DO
Use reconstituted solution within the recommended time
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children
❌ DON'T
Do not use if the solution is cloudy or has particles
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
This medicine is given in a hospital or clinic, so travel is usually not applicable during treatment. If you need to travel after completing treatment, carry a copy of your prescription and discharge summary. If you are travelling with this medicine, keep it in its original packaging and carry it in your hand luggage. Check the storage conditions and do not expose it to extreme temperatures. If you are travelling across time zones and still need treatment, discuss with your doctor how to adjust the timing of your doses. Always carry enough medicine for your entire trip and a few extra doses in case of delays. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines into your destination country.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: The antiviral effect begins soon after the infusion starts, but you may not notice improvement for 24 to 48 hours. Severe infections may take several days to improve.
A: No, this medicine must be given by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic. It cannot be self-administered at home.
A: Avoid alcohol, driving or operating machinery if you feel dizzy or drowsy, and other medicines that can harm the kidneys unless approved by your doctor.
A: This medicine can affect kidney function, especially if infused too quickly or if you are dehydrated. Your doctor will monitor your kidney function and adjust the dose as needed.
A: Available data do not show a clear increase in birth defects, but this medicine should be used during pregnancy only when the benefit justifies the risk and under medical supervision.
A: Small amounts pass into breast milk. Discuss with your doctor whether you need to temporarily interrupt breastfeeding during treatment.
A: If you miss an appointment for your infusion, contact your doctor or clinic as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not try to self-administer or double the dose.
A: The duration depends on the infection being treated. It can range from 5 to 7 days for some infections to 14 to 21 days for serious infections such as herpes encephalitis.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for axovir 250mg injection
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ovir 250mg injectionOsper Formulations Pvt Ltd ₹271.88 6.7% COSTLIER
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orviclo 250mg injectionRidhima Biocare ₹289.00 13.4% COSTLIER
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acycloveer g 250mg injectionGrapple Life Sciences Pvt Ltd ₹318.75 25% COSTLIER
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Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can cure herpes permanently.
Fact: This medicine reduces the severity and duration of herpes outbreaks, but it does not remove the virus from the body. The virus can remain dormant and reactivate later. - Myth: This medicine can be taken at home like a pill.
Fact: This medicine is given intravenously by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic. It cannot be self-administered at home. - Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
Fact: This medicine requires dose adjustment in kidney disease and should be avoided in people with severe allergic reactions to acyclovir. It must only be used under medical supervision. - Myth: This medicine has no side effects.
Fact: This medicine can cause side effects such as nausea, headache, injection site pain, kidney problems, and neurological symptoms. Serious side effects are uncommon but possible.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Acyclovir 250 mg injection
Brand Alternatives
- Axovir 250mg injection