​Pharmacology - Aciclovir

​Pharmacology - Aciclovir 
Aciclovir works by blocking the production of viral nucleic acids.

Mode of Action 
 Acyclovir triphosphate is produced when viral and host cell kinases convert aciclovir to a form that inhibits viral DNA polymerase.

When administered topically, intravenously (slowly), or orally, it undergoes fairly quick degradation inside the host cell. The concentration in cerebrospinal fluid is around half of what it is in plasma.

Use in Clinical Settings
Infections caused by herpes simplex virus, which can manifest as cold sores, mouth ulcers, conjunctivitis, vaginal infections, and, in more severe cases, encephalitis. Shenpa virus infections (shingles, chickenpox).

Potential Side Effects
Minimal most of the time; occasionally nausea, headache; very seldom encephalitis.