Axovir 500mg 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 swelling in legs
- Confusion, hallucinations, or seizures
- Difficulty breathing or swelling of face, lips, or throat
- Severe abdominal pain or blood in vomit
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Severe headache with visual changes
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is herpavir injection used for?
This medicine is an intravenous antiviral used to treat serious herpes simplex and varicella-zoster virus infections. It works by stopping the virus from multiplying and must be given by a healthcare professional.
- Generic Name: Acyclovir (500mg)
- Manufacturer: Solveig Lifesciences
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 herpavir injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा एक एंटीवायरल इंजेक्शन है जिसका उपयोग हर्पीस सिंप्लेक्स और वैरिसेला-ज़ोस्टर वायरस के गंभीर संक्रमणों के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह वायरस को शरीर में फैलने से रोकती है और संक्रमण के लक्षणों को कम करती है। यह दवा अस्पताल में डॉक्टर या नर्स द्वारा नस के माध्यम से दी 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। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में गुर्दे की समस्या, भ्रम, दौरे, और एलर्जी की प्रतिक्रिया हो सकती है। कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताएं।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल योग्य स्वास्थ्यकर्मी द्वारा ही दी जानी चाहिए। इलाज के दौरान पर्याप्त पानी पिएं ताकि गुर्दे सुरक्षित रहें। अगर आपको गुर्दे या लीवर की बीमारी है तो डॉक्टर को पहले बताएं। इलाज के दौरान शराब न पिएं और वाहन चलाने से बचें। बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के इलाज बीच में न रोकें।
💊 herpavir injection Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Herpes simplex encephalitis","description":"This medicine is the treatment of choice for herpes simplex encephalitis, a serious brain infection that requires prompt intravenous therapy.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Neonatal herpes simplex virus infection","description":"Used to treat disseminated or central nervous system herpes in newborns, reducing mortality and morbidity.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Mucocutaneous herpes simplex in immunocompromised patients","description":"Effective for severe or persistent herpes lesions in patients with weakened immune systems.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Varicella-zoster virus infections (shingles, chickenpox) in high-risk patients","description":"Indicated for severe or disseminated varicella-zoster infections, including in immunocompromised individuals.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Genital herpes (severe primary or recurrent)","description":"Used intravenously for severe cases requiring hospitalisation or in patients who cannot take oral therapy.","evidence":"Well-established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Herpes B virus prophylaxis","description":"Sometimes used off-label after monkey bites or exposure to herpes B virus, though evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Bell's palsy (with corticosteroids)","description":"Occasionally used off-label in combination with steroids, but evidence is not strong for the injectable form.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Herpes simplex virus infections (severe)
Also treats: Varicella-zoster virus infections, Herpes simplex encephalitis, Neonatal herpes, Mucocutaneous herpes in immunocompromised patients
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Acyclovir (500mg) |
| Brand Name | herpavir injection |
| Manufacturer | Solveig Lifesciences |
| 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 at room temperature (15-30°C) away from light. Once reconstituted, the solution should be used within 12 hours if kept at room temperature or within 24 hours if refrigerated (2-8°C). Do not freeze. |
| Shelf Life | Refer to the product packaging for the exact shelf life. Typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | The World Health Organization recommends acyclovir for the treatment of herpes simplex virus infections, including neonatal herpes and herpes encephalitis, based on established efficacy. |
| ICMR Guideline | The Indian Council of Medical Research guidelines also support the use of acyclovir for severe herpes simplex and varicella-zoster infections, with dose adjustments in renal impairment. |
👨⚕️ 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 into its active form, acyclovir triphosphate, primarily inside virus-infected cells. This activation requires the viral enzyme thymidine kinase. The active triphosphate then competitively inhibits viral DNA polymerase and causes DNA chain termination, preventing the virus from replicating. Because activation occurs mainly in infected cells, this medicine has selective toxicity against viruses with minimal effects on normal host cells.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take herpavir injection
Strength: 500 mg lyophilised powder for intravenous infusion
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The dose of this medicine must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. For herpes simplex encephalitis, the usual adult dose is 10 mg/kg every 8 hours for 10 days. For mucocutaneous herpes in immunocompromised patients, 5 mg/kg every 8 hours for 7 days is common. For varicella-zoster infections, 10 mg/kg every 8 hours for 7 to 10 days is typical. For severe genital herpes, 5 mg/kg every 8 hours for 5 days may be used. All doses are given by intravenous infusion over at least 1 hour. Dose adjustment is required in renal impairment. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing in children. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may have reduced kidney function and are at higher risk of neurological side effects. Dose adjustment based on creatinine clearance is often necessary. Monitor closely for confusion, hallucinations, or tremors. |
| Renal Impairment | Dose adjustment is required in patients with renal impairment. For adults with creatinine clearance less than 50 mL/min, the dose or dosing interval should be modified. For example, for creatinine clearance 25-50 mL/min, the usual dose may be given every 12 hours; for 10-25 mL/min, every 24 hours; and for less than 10 mL/min, the dose may be halved and given every 24 hours. Always consult a clinician for precise adjustment. |
| Hepatic Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is established for hepatic impairment, but caution is advised. Monitor liver function during therapy. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose is not fixed and depends on the indication and renal function. For serious infections, doses up to 30 mg/kg/day may be used. Always follow the prescribed regimen. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of herpavir injection
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Nephrotoxic drugs | Major | |
| Probenecid | Major | |
| Mycophenolate mofetil | Major | |
| Zidovudine | Moderate | |
| Cimetidine | Moderate | |
| Thiazide diuretics | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., aminoglycosides, amphotericin B, cyclosporine)
- Probenecid
- Mycophenolate mofetil
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Zidovudine
- Cimetidine
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may worsen dizziness and neurological side effects. It is advisable to avoid alcohol during treatment with this medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any component of the formulation","Severe renal impairment without appropriate dose adjustment","Dehydration (should be corrected before administration)"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Administer by slow intravenous infusion over at least 1 hour to reduce risk of kidney injury.","Ensure adequate hydration during treatment.","Adjust dose in patients with renal impairment.","Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased risk of neurological side effects.","Avoid extravasation; if it occurs, stop infusion and manage appropriately.","Do not use in patients with severe dehydration until corrected."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Acyclovir passes into breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but consult your doctor before use, especially if the infant is premature or has kidney problems.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine can cause increased kidney and neurological toxicity. Management includes discontinuation of the drug, supportive care, and haemodialysis, which can remove acyclovir from the blood. Contact a poison control centre or emergency department immediately if overdose is suspected.
⏰ Missed Dose
Since this medicine is given by a healthcare professional, missed doses are unlikely. If a dose is missed, it should be administered as soon as possible, but if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must only be given by a qualified healthcare professional. Before starting treatment, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or any allergies. Drink plenty of fluids during treatment to help protect your kidneys, unless your doctor advises otherwise. Do not breastfeed while receiving this medicine without consulting your doctor. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel dizzy or confused. Do not stop treatment early even if you feel better, because the infection may return. Keep all follow-up appointments for blood tests to monitor kidney and liver function. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, especially those that can affect the kidneys.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients are at higher risk of kidney and neurological side effects. Dose adjustment based on kidney function is often necessary. Monitor closely for confusion, hallucinations, or tremors.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy, discuss with your doctor. This medicine is generally considered safe if needed during pregnancy, but only use if clearly indicated.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
If you have recently had surgery, inform your surgeon and anaesthesiologist about this medicine. It may interact with other medications and affect kidney function.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are receiving this medicine. No specific precautions are usually needed, but maintain good hydration.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise during treatment, especially if you feel dizzy or weak. Light activity is fine if you feel up to it, but listen to your body.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
You may need to take time off work during treatment, especially if you are hospitalised. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you experience dizziness or confusion. Most people can resume normal activities after completing treatment.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop treatment early unless your doctor advises. Complete the full course as prescribed to ensure the infection is fully treated and to prevent recurrence.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is not common, as it is typically used for acute infections. Prolonged use may increase the risk of kidney and neurological side effects. Regular monitoring of kidney function is advised if extended therapy is required.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
For milder infections, oral acyclovir or valacyclovir may be used instead of intravenous therapy.
Evidence: Well-establishedFor localized herpes labialis, topical acyclovir cream may be sufficient.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no specific vaccine interactions with this medicine. However, live vaccines should be avoided during acute infection. Consult your doctor about vaccination timing.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not freeze the reconstituted solution
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Use reconstituted solution within 12 hours at room temperature or 24 hours if refrigerated
❌ DON'T
Do not use if the solution is cloudy or has particles
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
This medicine is given in a hospital setting, so travel is usually not applicable. If you are travelling after treatment, carry a copy of your prescription and medical records. Store any remaining medication as directed. For international travel, check customs regulations regarding injectable medicines and carry a doctor's letter.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: Antiviral effects begin within hours, but clinical improvement may take 1 to 3 days.
A: No, this medicine must be given by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic.
A: It is generally considered safe when clinically indicated, but consult your doctor.
A: Since it is given by a professional, missed doses are unlikely. If a dose is missed, follow your doctor's instructions.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for herpavir injection
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
valavir 500mg tabletCipla Ltd ₹105.94 76.7% CHEAPER
-
valcet 500mg tabletKivi Labs Ltd ₹112.50 75.3% CHEAPER
-
valamac 500mg tabletMacleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd ₹126.56 72.2% CHEAPER
-
valkon 500mg tabletEskon Pharma ₹126.56 72.2% CHEAPER
-
valcoveer 500mg tabletKnoll Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹126.56 72.2% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can cure any viral infection.
Fact: This medicine is only effective against certain herpes viruses. It does not treat common colds, flu, or other viral infections. - Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
Fact: It requires dose adjustment in kidney disease and is not recommended for people with known hypersensitivity to acyclovir. - Myth: You can stop treatment once you feel better.
Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed to prevent the infection from returning and to reduce the risk of resistance.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Acyclovir 500 mg injection (generic)
Brand Alternatives
- Zovirax 500 mg injection
- Acivir 500 mg injection
- Acyclovir 500 mg injection (various manufacturers)