Generic
Acyclovir (Ophthalmic)
11 brands available in the market
At a glance
Acyclovir (Ophthalmic) is an antiviral eye ointment used for the treatment of herpes simplex keratitis (eye infection caused by herpes simplex virus). It stops viral multiplication on the cornea and clears the infection.
Description
Acyclovir (Ophthalmic) is an antiviral agent active against herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 and varicella-zoster virus. It is converted by viral thymidine kinase to acyclovir monophosphate, which is further converted to diphosphate and active triphosphate by cellular enzymes. This active form inhibits viral DNA synthesis and replication by interfering with viral DNA polymerase and incorporating into viral DNA. It is for external use only.
Indications
Herpes simplex keratitis.
Therapeutic class
Ophthalmic Anti-viral Products
Pharmacological class
Antiviral (Nucleoside Analog)
Pharmacology
Acyclovir is highly active in vitro against Herpes simplex (HSV) types I and II and Varicella zoster viruses, with low toxicity to mammalian cells. Acyclovir is phosphorylated to the active compound acyclovir triphosphate after entry into herpes infected cells. The first step requires viral-coded thymidine kinase. Acyclovir triphosphate acts as an inhibitor and substrate for herpes-specific DNA polymerase, preventing viral DNA synthesis without affecting normal cellular processes.
Mechanism of action
Acyclovir is converted to acyclovir triphosphate inside virus-infected cells, which inhibits herpes-specific DNA polymerase and incorporates into viral DNA, stopping viral DNA replication.
Dosage
Same dosage for all ages:
- Place a 10 mm ribbon of ointment inside the lower conjunctival sac
- Apply 5 times daily (approximately every 4 hours)
- Continue treatment for at least 3 days after healing is complete
Administration
- For external use only
- Wash hands before and after application
- Do not touch the tube tip to the eye or eyelashes (to maintain sterility)
- Pull down lower eyelid and place 10 mm of ointment inside
- Do not apply at nighttime
- Discard the tube one month after opening
- Do not wear contact lenses during treatment
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, apply 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.
Side effects
Very common (>10%): Superficial punctate keratopathy (does not require treatment termination and heals without sequelae)
Common (1-10%): Transient mild stinging of the eye immediately following application, conjunctivitis
Rare (<1%): Blepharitis
Precautions & warnings
- Do not exceed the recommended dosage, frequency, or duration of treatment
- Continue treatment for at least 3 days after healing is complete
- Do not wear contact lenses during treatment
- Do not contaminate the tube tip (do not touch the tip to the eye or any surface)
- Do not apply at nighttime
- Discard the tube one month after opening
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to acyclovir or valacyclovir.
Drug interactions
No clinically significant interactions have been identified.
Food interactions
No food interactions (topical application).
Use in pregnancy
Pregnancy Category: B. No adequate controlled studies in pregnant women. It is not known whether topically applied acyclovir is excreted in breast milk. Use only if clearly needed with medical advice.
Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
It is not known whether topically applied acyclovir is excreted in breast milk. Use with caution.
Pediatric use
Same dosage applies for all ages. Pediatric dose is the same as adult dose.
Geriatric use
No dose adjustment needed for elderly patients.
Renal / hepatic impairment
No dose adjustment needed for topical use (minimal systemic absorption).
Overdose effects
No adverse effects would be expected if the entire tube containing 90 mg acyclovir were ingested orally.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light. Keep out of reach of children. Do not touch the tube tip. Discard one month after opening.
Chemical structure
Acyclovir 3% Eye Ointment