Acyclovir for a 5 month old baby. "Acyclovir": instructions for use in children for the treatment and prevention of viral infections


Acyclovir is medicine with antiviral activity. Available in the form of a cream and ointment for external use, ointment for the eyes, as well as in the form of tablets. Usually, acyclovir is prescribed to children for the treatment of herpes.
Can acyclovir be given to children?

Acyclovir tablets can be prescribed to children older than one year, since its effect on the body of an infant has not been fully studied. Children older than one month can be treated with ointment, since it has a direct effect on herpes viruses.

A doctor may prescribe acyclovir if a child has chickenpox. However, children under one year of age rarely get chickenpox. With chickenpox, it is used both locally and internally.
Acyclovir ointment for children: indications for use

The ointment has been successfully used to treat herpes simplex viruses, herpes zoster and chicken pox. Acyclovir can be used as a prophylactic against herpes against the background of a general decrease in immunity (for example, after a course of chemotherapy, HIV-infected).

For the treatment of children under one year old, acyclovir is not often used, but its toxic effect on the body of a newborn child has not been proven.
Dosage of aciclovir tablets

Tablets are prescribed in the following dosage:
children from 1 to 2 years: 100 mg per day (1/2 tablet) for five days every 4 hours;
after 2 years: 200 mg (one tablet) 4 times a day;
children 2-5 years: 400 mg (two tablets) 4 times a day;
children over 6 years: 800 mg (4 tablets) 4 times a day.

In especially severe cases, treatment can be extended up to ten days. In order to prevent recurrence of the disease, an alternative method of treatment can be used: 400 mg of acyclovir every 12 hours. Every six months it is necessary to take a break in treatment to assess the effectiveness of the prescribed treatment.

For the treatment of herpes zoster, a child older than 3 years is prescribed 800 mg of the drug every 6 hours.

Dosage of acyclovir ointment

When determining the dosage of the ointment, it should be based on the weight of the child (no more than 80 mg per kilogram of the baby's weight, no more than 0.25 grams per 25 sq. cm of the damaged skin area). Children over 12 years old - at the rate of not more than 125 mg per 25 sq. cm. The ointment is applied to the damaged areas of the skin every 4 hours, with a break at night. The full course of treatment is five days. If the skin rash has not completely disappeared, then you can extend the treatment period for another 5 days.

To treat a generalized infection in a newborn child caused by the herpes simplex virus, the doctor may prescribe acyclovir every 8 hours at a dosage of 10 mg per kilogram of the child's weight. The full course of treatment is ten days.

Dosage of aciclovir eye cream

Aciclovir cream is used to treat eye viral diseases (herpetic keratitis). It is placed in the conjunctival sac at least 5 times a day, taking a break for the night. The course of treatment is at least 7 days. After the disappearance of the main symptoms of the disease, it is necessary to continue using the cream for another three days.

During treatment, it is important to increase the amount of fluid consumed by the child.
Acyclovir: side reactions

Like any therapeutic agent, acyclovir has a number of adverse reactions, upon detection of which it is necessary to immediately stop treatment and seek medical help. The following symptoms are noted:
nausea;
vomit;
intestinal colic;
rash on the body;
increased fatigue;
fever;
in blood tests, a decrease in hematology indicators is noted.

In especially severe cases, when administered intravenously to children older than two years, severe adverse reactions from
nervous system:

Increased activity;
tremor of the limbs;
convulsions;
hallucinations;
coma.

It should be remembered that long-term use of acyclovir can be addictive, as a result of which the drug will no longer be sensitive to virus strains. Therefore, whenever possible, short-term courses of treatment (10-12 days) should be carried out.

At infectious diseases caused by the herpes virus, adults are prescribed acyclovir. The tool effectively fights the disease. Can acyclovir be given to children under two years of age? In some cases, drug treatment is possible with the appointment of a pediatrician and under his supervision.

Form and purpose of the drug

Acyclovir is an antiviral agent, available in the form of tablets with a dosage of 200 and 400 mg, 3% eye ointment, powder for injection solutions, 5% ointment or cream for external use. It is active against cytomegalovirus, herpes and Epstein-Bar, destroys them from the inside, penetrating inside the cell. Used to treat diseases:

  • Stomatitis of herpes origin. The drug reduces the activity of the virus, reduces the appearance of new ulcers;
  • Shingles caused by a virus, a skin disease;
  • Herpes sore throat - characterized by the appearance of blisters on the mucous throat, which burst and turn into sores. Treatment with antibiotics does not work;
  • Conjunctivitis, inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye;
  • Herpes. It often forms on the lips, occurs with a cold due to a decrease in immunity or after infection from a carrier of the virus;
  • Chickenpox - skin rashes, accompanied by fever, acyclovir ointment or tablets are used for treatment.

The drug can be used to prevent the recurrence of herpes infection with a general decrease in immunity. It stimulates the body's defenses, helping it fight viruses. You can not prescribe the drug yourself, it is used after consulting a doctor.

Can acyclovir be given to babies?

Instructions for use contain an age limit - children from three years old. The effect of acyclovir on the baby's body has not been fully studied. A doctor may prescribe it for severe herpes infection.

Tablets for treatment are given to children older than a year. Ointment and cream, when applied externally, almost do not enter the bloodstream; they are used for infants older than a month. For newborns, the use of acyclovir is undesirable. It is not used to treat the mother during lactation, because the active substance of the drug accumulates in breast milk and enters the baby's body.

Ointment acyclovir, instructions for use in children up to a year:

  • Dosage - no more than 80 mg per kg of baby's weight per day (the norm for children under 12 years old);
  • It is applied up to 5 times daily pointwise on a rash or sores;
  • The ointment can not be applied to healthy skin - the consistency is dense, it limits the access of oxygen. In the last stages, it is more convenient to apply the cream - it is quickly absorbed. It is better to use the ointment at the beginning of the disease, because it keeps better;
  • For the effective action of the drug, you can not bathe the child after application;
  • The course is 5 days, if the rash has not gone away, continue using for another 5 days.

Eye ointment

Eye ointment is applied to the inner mucosa of the lower eyelid of the eye, slightly pulling it down. The laying of the drug is carried out 5 r / day, for a week. After the symptoms of conjunctivitis disappear, continue treatment for another 3 days.

The drug is not used at night, you need to take a break for sleep, even if the child often wakes up.

Contraindications, side effects

The drug is not used in the event of an allergy to the substances that make up the drug. Take with caution to children with deviations in the development of the nervous system, disorders of the kidneys and liver. Do not use the drug for prolonged dehydration, this will strengthen it negative impact to the urinary system.

Taking acyclovir can lead to side effects:

  • Violation of the nervous system, expressed in fatigue, decreased activity, drowsiness, lethargy, tremor of the arms and legs;
  • From the digestive system - diarrhea, vomiting, disruption of the liver;
  • Perhaps a decrease in the level of erythrocytes, leukocytes in the blood;
  • When used externally - itching, rash, dryness and peeling;
  • In severe cases, the drug can cause convulsions, fever, coma, psychosis, hair loss on the skin of the body and head.

Acyclovir rarely causes side effects, but they need to be known, when a child appears, stop taking it and consult your doctor. An allergic reaction is more often caused by internal administration of the drug. With prolonged use or interruption of the course before the end of treatment, the virus may become addictive and adapt to the active substance. It is necessary to take acyclovir for no more than 12 days.

The active substance may crystallize in the renal canals at high concentrations in the urine and should be used with caution in patients with renal insufficiency. You should choose another drug if you are simultaneously taking drugs that aggressively affect the functioning of the kidneys, which can lead to intoxication, since acyclovir can enhance the effect.

It is not recommended to independently prescribe acyclovir to a baby, one disease is not always caused by a virus, bacteria can be the cause. It is possible to identify the origin of the disease with the help of additional studies. If you treat a baby with an antiviral drug for a bacterial infection, the treatment will be ineffective, time will be lost during which the disease progresses and can turn into a complex form. Be sure to use the drug for children under 3 years of age after consulting a pediatrician.

Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. Especially actively suppresses herpes viruses, Epstein-Barr, shingles. Reduced activity retains against cytomegalovirus. Also, the drug reduces pain in herpes zoster in the acute phase. Released without a prescription.

Diseases for which acyclovir is used

  • HIV (component of complex therapy).
  • Infections of the mucous membranes, skin caused by rectal, genital and other types of herpes simplex (types 1 and 2).
  • Chickenpox.
  • Shingles.
  • Complex therapy in patients after bone marrow transplantation.
  • Prevention of infection caused by cytomegaloviruses.
  • Eye diseases provoked by the herpes virus.

Instructions for use of acyclovir

The drug is taken orally, externally, intravenously. It is recommended to start treatment immediately after the first symptoms of the disease begin to appear.

Varieties of acyclovir

Tablets, solution for intravenous infusion, ointment for external use.

Dosage of acyclovir

For adults and children over 2 years of age

inside

Treatment of herpes simplex: 5 times a day, 200 mg.

Prevention of infections in HIV: 4 times a day, 200 mg.

Herpes zoster treatment: 800 mg, 4-5 times a day.

Treatment of rectal herpes: 5 times a day, 400 mg. The standard course of treatment lasts 10 days.

Treatment of genital herpes: 5 times a day, 200 mg.

Prevention of herpes: 205 times a day, 200 mg.

Intravenously

Treatment of herpes types 1 and 2, treatment of herpes types 1 and 2 in HIV, intestinal absorption disorders, after bone marrow transplantation: 3 times a day, 5 mg per 1 kg of body weight. There should be 8 hours between doses.

Herpetic meningoencephalitis: 10 mg per 1 kg of body weight. The interval must be 8 hours.

Prevention of herpes: 3 times a day, 5 mg per 1 kg of body weight. There should be 8 hours between doses.

Chicken pox: 3 times a day, 5 mg per 1 kg of body weight. There should be 8 hours between doses.

Prevention of infection of cytomegalovirus nature: 500 mg per m2 of body area.

The daily dose for adults should not exceed 30 mg per kilogram of body weight.

For children

inside

Children aged 3 months to 2 years are prescribed half the adult dose. The order of acceptance is the same. Treatment of newborns with acyclovir is undesirable.

Intravenously

For children aged 3 months to 12 years, half the adult dose is prescribed. Dosage changes are possible according to the doctor's prescription.

Local application

The lesions are treated with ointment 4-5 times a day. Between each application of the ointment should pass 5 hours.

Side effects of acyclovir

  • Increased fatigue.
  • Headache.
  • Diarrhea, flatulence.
  • Nausea, vomiting.
  • Increased levels of liver enzymes in the blood.
  • Allergic reaction. Redness, rash on the skin.
  • Puffiness.
  • Elevated temperature.
  • Neuralgia.
  • Intestinal colic.
  • Renal failure (possible with prolonged intravenous administration of large doses of the drug).

Acyclovir contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity.

Acyclovir during pregnancy

During pregnancy and lactation, taking the drug is undesirable. If lactation requires treatment with acyclovir, breastfeeding should be discontinued.

Herpetic infections are among the most common in the human population. According to medical data, almost 85% of the world's population are carriers of this infection. Most often, the first contact with the causative agent of herpes occurs in early childhood. In this case, it is necessary to use effective antiviral agents. Below is an instruction for the use of "Acyclovir" for children, which has a pronounced antiviral activity.

"Acyclovir" was developed at the end of the 20th century, and took a leading position in the selection of an effective antiviral drug. Despite the appearance on the pharmaceutical market of a large number of its analogues and derivatives, the drug is still actively used in medical practice. For many years of use accumulated enough great experience its use, proven low toxicity, including for children. That is why Acyclovir belongs to the OTC group of drugs, which once again confirms its safety.

Initially, the active substance "Acyclovir" was synthesized from the nucleosides contained in the sea sponge. It was similar to those used to obtain anticancer drugs. For the development of "Acyclovir" American scientist Gertrude Elion was awarded the Nobel Prize.

What are the forms of release

The pharmaceutical industry produces "Acyclovir" in various dosage forms. Therefore, it can be used for any localization of the pathological process. For the treatment of herpes infection, it is possible to use various dosage forms of this drug. However, in pediatric practice, the most commonly used:

  • tablets;
  • ointment.

Syrup "Acyclovir" is not produced by the manufacturer.

Which of the dosage forms will be most preferable for a child is determined by the clinical situation. So, with the localization of a herpetic infection on the outer skin and mucous membranes, a cream or ointment is indicated. Generalized forms of infection require the appointment of tablets or injections.

The action of the drug

"Acyclovir" is a synthetic analogue of deoxyguanosine, a compound that is part of the DNA structure of living organisms. The therapeutic effect of the drug is due to the fact that it is able to penetrate into the cell containing the virus. After turning into active form the drug disrupts the synthesis of viral DNA. This leads to a stop in the reproduction of viral particles and a decrease in the inflammatory reaction in the zone of the infectious process.

When swallowed, the tablets are relatively well absorbed in the intestine, their bioavailability reaches 30%. The advantage of "Acyclovir" is the fact that food practically does not affect its absorption, and it can be taken with meals. The active substance of the drug is well distributed in the tissues and fluids of the body. It penetrates well through all biological barriers. Its high concentrations are found in the cerebrospinal fluid.

The main metabolism of the drug occurs in the liver cells, this point must be taken into account when prescribing it to children with pathologies of the hepatobiliary system. A small amount is excreted unchanged in the feces.

"Acyclovir" is effective in infection with the following viral pathogens:

  • herpes simplex type I;
  • herpes simplex type II;
  • chickenpox;
  • cytomegalovirus;
  • Epstein-Barr virus.

It should also be remembered that approximately 5% of people who have frequent relapses of herpes infection develop resistance of the virus to Acyclovir over time. This is due to a mutation of the causative agent of the disease and a violation of the synthesis of thymidine kinase, a protein component that converts Acyclovir into an active form.

For what diseases is Acyclovir used for children

This drug can be used to treat herpes infections, as well as in case of damage by other viruses that are sensitive to its effects. Assign it inside to children with the following pathologies:

  • with herpes, including;
  • when ;
  • prophylactically to exclude exacerbations;
  • in the treatment of patients with immunological deficiency;
  • for treatment and prevention;
  • to suppress;
  • for the prevention of recurrence of herpes against the background of ARVI or,.

Indications for the use of Acyclovir ointment for children are the following diseases caused by herpes:

  • infection of the skin, mucous membranes (lips, genitals);
  • ophthalmic pathology caused by herpes (keratitis, etc.).

The best effect "Acyclovir" has in herpetic infections. And although it inhibits the reproduction of the Epstein-Barr virus, it is rarely used for infectious mononucleosis (monocytic angina). This is due to the fact that this virus, as a rule, causes a mild course of the disease, in which there is no need to use antiviral antibiotics.

How and when to take the pills

The tablet form can be used from the age of three. Giving "Acyclovir" to children under one year old is allowed only if there are strong indications. In the pharmacy chain, you can buy tablets with different contents of the active substance: 0.2 or 0.4 g.

It is better to give the medicine during or immediately after a meal. At the same time, it is necessary to drink it with a sufficient amount of water or juice. The dosage of Acyclovir tablets for a child is determined individually, based on the localization of the process, the severity of the manifestations of the disease.

Chickenpox

The amount of medicine is calculated based on the ratio of 0.02 g per kilogram of the child's weight. Possible dosages depending on age are described in the table.

Table - Approximate dosages of "Acyclovir" for chickenpox

The duration of therapy for chickenpox should be at least five days. They begin to give Acyclovir tablets to children already at the first manifestations of the disease, that is, when a rash appears on the skin within twenty-four hours.

herpes simplex virus

In this case, the exact dosage of "Acyclovir" for the child is determined by the attending physician based on the severity of the rashes and the state of immunity. Usually, when calculating the dosage, a ratio of 0.02 g per kilogram of body weight is adhered to, while a single amount of the drug should not exceed 0.8 g. Approximate dosages are in the table.

Table - Calculation of the dose of medication for the treatment of herpes infection

If the child has an immunodeficiency, the amount of "Acyclovir" is 0.8 g four times a day. This dosage is used for patients older than three years. Usually the duration of therapy is no more than five days. How much and from what age to give "Acyclovir" to children should be clarified with the pediatrician.

How to use the external forms of the remedy

These pharmaceutical forms are used only externally, that is, they are applied to the skin or visible mucous membranes. One gram of 5% Acyclovir cream contains 0.05 g of the main active ingredient. Ointment "Acyclovir" contains the same amount of the main ingredient. For external use, tubes of various sizes are produced.

In addition to the main ingredient, the composition of the cream or ointment also includes additional substances - fillers. They provide a uniform distribution of the pharmaceutical product on the skin or mucous membrane, and allow its active ingredients to act on the pathological process at the site of application.

However, the ointment contains a larger amount of fatty components, so it is poorly absorbed and acts on the surface for a longer time. Ointment "Acyclovir" is more preferable for the treatment of open herpes sores, it prevents the elements of the rash from drying out and, accordingly, contributes to their faster regeneration.

Cream "Acyclovir" has a lighter texture, quickly absorbed. It is more suitable if you need to treat the skin that is under clothing.

The algorithm for applying a cream or ointment involves three steps.

  1. First, wash your hands thoroughly.
  2. Squeeze a small amount of cream onto a cotton swab or finger.
  3. Apply to herpetic eruptions in a very thin layer. You also need to additionally process nearby areas of the skin.

This procedure must be performed at least five times a day. The interval between applications of cream or ointment should be at least four hours. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the rash and usually ranges from five to ten days. It is important that at the end of the treatment there is complete healing, or the rash on the skin should be covered with a crust.

According to the official instructions, it is not recommended to smear "Acyclovir" in the mouth of a child with herpetic stomatitis. However, some parents still use a cream to treat mouth erosions. The possibility of using this drug for lesions of the oral mucosa should be clarified with a pediatrician.

Eye ointment

In 3% Acyclovir ointment, the content of the main active ingredient is 0.03 g per gram of the drug. The medicine is produced in small tubes with a volume of 5 g. The procedure for applying an ointment for conjunctivitis or other herpetic eye pathology is performed in four stages.

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
  2. Lightly pull the lower eyelid with your finger.
  3. With the other hand, squeeze a small amount of ointment (about 1 cm strip) into the lower conjunctival sac.
  4. Remove your finger from the eyelid and close the eye for a few seconds.

This procedure should be repeated up to five times a day. The interval between treatments must be at least four hours.

How long the treatment of herpes "Acyclovir" in a child will last is determined individually, depending on the degree of eye damage. But even after the disappearance of the symptoms of the disease, the application of the ointment should be carried out for another three days.

What are the possible side effects

According to doctors' reviews, Acyclovir is well tolerated. Occasionally, when using it, such side effects may occur.

  • Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Dyspepsia, loose stools, epigastric pain, liver damage, the appearance of yellowness of the skin.
  • Disorders of the nervous system. Headache, vestibular disturbances, fatigue, drowsiness or agitation. Very rarely - convulsions.
  • Changes in the composition of the blood. Decrease in the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, deviations in liver enzymes, urea, creatinine.
  • Allergic reactions. Urticaria, skin itching, Quincke's edema. When using the cream (ointment) "Acyclovir", local manifestations are possible in the form of itching or burning at the site of application.

Most often, side effects occur with prolonged use of "Acyclovir" or exceeding its dosage. Therefore, it is necessary to take this medicine only after consulting a doctor.

Overdose

When ingesting very large doses of Acyclovir (more than 20 g), signs of an overdose may develop:

  • mental arousal;
  • convulsions;
  • disturbance of consciousness.

There is no antidote for Acyclovir, therefore, in this case, symptomatic therapy is carried out.

Contraindications

A contraindication for tablets "Acyclovir" is the age of the child up to three years. It is also necessary to use the medicine with caution in the following pathological conditions:

  • renal failure;
  • dehydration;
  • disorders of the nervous system in the past;
  • hypersensitivity of the skin when using a cream, ointment.

It should also be borne in mind that the joint joint use of "Acyclovir" and nephrotoxic drugs increases the risk of impaired renal filtration.

Acquisition and analogues

Everything dosage forms"Acyclovir" are included in the non-prescription group. However, they should be used only after consulting a doctor. In the pharmacy, you can also find analogues containing Acyclovir as the main active ingredient:

  • Virolex;
  • "Zovirax";
  • "Gerpevir".

These drugs are also available in the form of ointments or tablets. They can be used for various localization of herpetic infection.

Price for Acyclovir: 60-160 rubles.

Acyclovir: instructions for use for children

Often, with herpes infections in children, doctors resort to prescribing specific drugs. Acyclovir is an antiviral drug that is produced in tablet form, as well as in the form of a cream for surface application, ointment for the eyes. This medicine is often used in children to treat herpes infections.

Can Acyclovir be given to children?

The drug acyclovir is administered orally to children from one year old, since there are no adequate results of studies of its negative effect on the body of a newborn baby and children under twelve months. Taking the drug up to a year at the discretion of the doctor is allowed only rare cases. For children from the age of one month, pediatricians may suggest the use of an ointment that specifically affects herpes viruses.

In severe and moderately severe chickenpox in a baby, a pediatrician may prescribe the use of acyclovir. In most cases, children under the age of one are relatively rarely ill with this childhood infection. With chicken pox, an antiviral drug based on acyclovir is used both internally and externally, lubricating the affected skin with ointment.

Release form and indications for use

Antiviral ointment with acyclovir is widely used for local treatment herpes simplex and herpes simplex. Acyclovir can be used as a prophylactic against herpes infections against the background of immunosuppressive conditions (HIV infection, chemotherapy). For this, acyclovir tablets are used.

Ointment dosage

In order to prevent an overdose of the drug, the weight of the child is taken into account when applying the ointment (up to 80 mg of the drug is applied per kg of weight). On skin areas of 25 sq. cm should be applied up to 0.25 gr. For children from twelve years old - up to 125 mg per 25 square meters. see. It is necessary to apply the ointment every four hours, taking into account the break for the night, for five days in a row. In the event that the rash has not completely disappeared, the duration of application of the ointment is increased by ten days.

Dosage of Acyclovir tablets

For babies from one to two years old, acyclovir is prescribed at a dose of 100 mg (half a tablet), 6 times a day, a course of 5 days. From two to five years of age, children should take 400 mg every 6 hours, from six years and older - 800 mg every 6 hours. Children over three years of age in the treatment of herpes zoster should take 800 mg of the drug every six hours. In newborns, for the treatment of generalized herpes infection of the first type, a neonatologist may recommend taking acyclovir three times a day at a dose of ten mg per kg of the child's weight, for a ten-day course.

Dosage of aciclovir eye cream

For the treatment of keratitis caused by the herpes virus, acyclovir is used in the form of an eye cream, which is applied five times a day in the conjunctival sac, with a break at night. Treatment takes about seven days. The use of the cream is required to continue for another three days after discontinuation. clinical symptoms infections.

Adverse reactions

Like any pharmacological drug, acyclovir in a child's body can cause side effects, upon the appearance of which the pills are stopped, which requires immediate consultation of a qualified specialist. During therapy with this drug, there may be disturbances in the functioning of the stomach and intestines, intestinal colic, rashes on the skin of the child's body, fatigue, changes in hematological blood parameters in the clinical analysis, and febrile phenomena.

With the introduction of the drug intravenously in children from two years old, disturbing changes in the work of the central nervous system can be observed, namely: irritability, increased convulsive activity, trembling of the hands and feet, the phenomenon of hallucinations, coma. It should be taken into account that long-term therapy with acyclovir can contribute to the addiction of herpes infection strains to this antiviral drug, which in the future reduces the effectiveness of the therapy. Infectious disease doctors strongly recommend the use of ten-day courses of treatment. We must not forget that when taking acyclovir, the child should use required amount water during the day.

Video instructions for use.

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