Herpes treatment: episodic

Aciclovir 800mg
18 tablets

Before using this medication, read this page and the instruction leaflet inside the box.

Tell your doctor that you’re taking aciclovir if you need other medicines or treatment while taking this treatment.

Make sure you’ve told us about any allergies or medical conditions you have and any other medicines you take before you start this treatment.

If you have an outbreak of visible herpes then it’s a good idea to talk to the people you have sex with about the infection.

How to take aciclovir

Take 1 tablet 3 times a day. Do this for 2 days.

This medication is most effective if you start it in the first 5 days of an outbreak. Take the tablets with or without food. Drink plenty of water while taking this medication.

If you still have symptoms 5 days after taking aciclovir, contact your local sexual health clinic as you may need further treatment. This pack should contain enough tablets to treat several outbreaks.

You might notice some side effects from taking this medicine. Common side effects include headaches, feeling dizzy and feeling or being sick.

If pain means you cannot pee (pass urine) for more than 12 hours, it’s important to go to A&E for help.

If you are pregnant and have an outbreak of herpes, talk to your midwife.

Do you need help with something else?