Aciclovir
Suspected encephalitis: 10 mg/kg IV every 8 hours. Shingles: 800 mg 5 times daily for 7 days. Adjust for kidney function.
Common brands in Pakistan: Zovirax. Brand availability changes; check with your pharmacy.
On this page
Dose
| Indication | Dose |
|---|---|
| Encephalitis (HSV or VZV) | 10 mg/kg IV every 8 hours for 14–21 days |
| Shingles | 800 mg orally 5 times daily for 7 days |
| Chickenpox (adult, within 24 hours of rash) | 800 mg orally 5 times daily for 7 days |
| Genital herpes (first episode) | 400 mg 3 times daily for 5–10 days |
| Child (encephalitis, 3 months–11 years) | 10–20 mg/kg IV every 8 hours (specialist) |
Kidney
Reduce dose; keep well hydrated with IV aciclovir (crystal nephropathy).
Frequently asked questions
Should aciclovir be started before the LP result in suspected encephalitis?
Yes. Start IV aciclovir within an hour; don't wait for the LP or scan.
Used in these guides
Sources
Doses on this page are typical doses from the sources above. Always confirm with a current drug reference, the product leaflet and your hospital protocol, especially in children, pregnancy and kidney or liver disease.
For FCPS Part 1
Revising for FCPS Part 1? Aciclovir is covered in our textbook chapter Antivirals and antifungals, with practice MCQs.