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15GM of 5%, Acyclovir (1 Tube)
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CVS
$21.65
COUPON PRICE
Walmart
$14.35
COUPON PRICE
Walgreens
$17.57
COUPON PRICEAcyclovir savings card
Show this card to your pharmacistWalmart
$14.35
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ID
PCN
GRP
019876
LHAA6C72E3
CHIPPO
LHX
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Price history for Zovirax (brand) & Acyclovir (generic)
1 Tube, 15GM of 5%
Average retail price for Zovirax
Average retail price for Acyclovir
Average SaveHealth price for Acyclovir
Our price history data is based on aggregated prescription data collected from participating pharmacies in America. Our prescription data updates daily to reflect the latest price changes. If you notice a missing data point, it means there wasn't sufficient data available to generate a monetary value for that date.
We analyzed Acyclovir prices for (15GM of 5%, 1 Tube) over the last 12 months. The average retail price was $27.92, while the average price using the SaveHealth discount card was $26.52. That's a savings of approximately 5.01% when using our Acyclovir coupon.
Compared to the generic version, Zovirax had an average price of $624.31 over the same time period. With the SaveHealth savings card, Acyclovir is 95.75% cheaper on average than Zovirax.
*Retail prices are based on pharmacy claims data, and may not be accurate when we don't have enough claims
Acyclovir dosage forms
| Dosage | Quantity | Price from | Per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5GM of 5% | 1 Tube | $38.76 | $38.76 |
| 15GM of 5% | 1 Tube | $14.35 | $14.35 |
Acyclovir Warnings
This document outlines crucial safety information and warnings associated with the use of acyclovir (Zovirax). Please read the following details carefully, and consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.
Blood Disorders: While rare, acyclovir (Zovirax) has been linked to serious blood disorders, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. Healthcare providers may perform blood tests to monitor this risk. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as unexplained fever, unusual bleeding or bruising, confusion, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or dark urine.
Kidney Problems: Acyclovir (Zovirax) can potentially cause significant kidney damage, especially in older adults. Those with impaired kidney function may require a reduced dosage. The risk increases if you are dehydrated or taking other medications that can harm the kidneys, such as NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen. It is important to maintain adequate hydration while on this medication. Consult your healthcare provider before using any additional medications, including over-the-counter pain relievers or cold medicines. Lab tests may be conducted to assess your kidney health during treatment.
Contraindications: Acyclovir (Zovirax) should not be used by individuals with allergies to acyclovir, valacyclovir (Valtrex), or milk protein concentrate (specific to Sitavig). If these apply to you, discuss alternatives with your healthcare provider.
These warnings are crucial for ensuring safe use of the medication. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider and report any adverse effects or concerns promptly.
Acyclovir Side Effects
Common side effects:
- feeling unwell
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- headaches
- dry or cracked lips
- burning, stinging, or flaky skin
- dizziness
- low energy
- pain
- irritation
- redness
- rash at the application site
Serious side effects:
- severe allergic reactions
- rash
- itching
- swelling (particularly of the face, tongue, or throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
- severe reactions at the application site
Acyclovir Interactions
Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses. While generally safe, it's important to be aware of potential interactions with other medications that could affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.
Kidney Function and Nephrotoxic Drugs
Acyclovir is primarily eliminated through the kidneys. Combining it with other medications that can affect kidney function may increase the risk of kidney-related side effects. Such medications include:
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Medications like Ibuprofen and Naproxen can potentially increase the risk of kidney damage when taken with acyclovir.
Aminoglycoside Antibiotics: Drugs such as gentamicin and Tobramycin may also elevate the risk of kidney issues when used concurrently with acyclovir.
Probenecid, a medication used to treat gout, can slow down the elimination of acyclovir from the body. This can lead to higher levels of acyclovir in the bloodstream, increasing the likelihood of side effects.
Cimetidine, commonly used for heartburn and ulcers, can reduce the clearance of acyclovir, resulting in higher drug levels in the blood and a greater risk of side effects.
Antiepileptic Drugs
There have been reports of interactions between acyclovir and antiepileptic medications like Phenytoin and Valproic Acid. In some cases, acyclovir may reduce the plasma concentrations of these drugs, potentially leading to decreased seizure control.
Immunosuppressants
Medications such as Cyclosporine and Tacrolimus, which suppress the immune system, can increase the risk of kidney damage when taken with acyclovir.
Live Vaccines
Acyclovir may interfere with the effectiveness of live vaccines, such as the varicella-zoster virus vaccine. It's generally recommended to discontinue acyclovir at least 24 hours before and not to resume it until 14 days after vaccination.
General Recommendations
To minimize the risk of interactions:
Inform Your Healthcare Provider: Always provide a complete list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to your healthcare provider.
Monitor Kidney Function: If you're taking medications that affect kidney function along with acyclovir, regular monitoring of kidney function may be necessary.
Adjust Dosages if Necessary: Your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dosages of acyclovir or other medications to reduce the risk of interactions.
Being aware of these potential interactions can help ensure that acyclovir is used safely and effectively.
What is acyclovir mainly used for?
Acyclovir is mainly used to treat viral infections caused by the herpes simplex virus, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles. It is also used to manage chickenpox in certain cases.
What is a serious side effect of acyclovir?
A serious side effect of acyclovir can be kidney problems, which may manifest as changes in urination, swelling in the feet or ankles, or unusual tiredness. If any of these symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
What should I avoid while taking acyclovir?
While taking acyclovir, it is advisable to avoid dehydration. Patients should drink plenty of water to help maintain kidney function and prevent potential kidney issues. Additionally, they should avoid alcohol, as it can increase the risk of dehydration and may exacerbate side effects. It's also important to avoid any activities that require full alertness if experiencing dizziness or drowsiness as side effects. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
What does aciclovir do?
Aciclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by certain types of viruses. It is commonly prescribed for managing herpes simplex virus infections, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles (herpes zoster). Aciclovir works by inhibiting the replication of viral DNA, thereby reducing the severity and duration of the infection. It is important to note that while aciclovir can help manage symptoms and reduce outbreaks, it does not cure the infection.
What virus does acyclovir target best?
Acyclovir is most effective against the herpes simplex virus (HSV), particularly HSV-1 and HSV-2, which cause oral and genital herpes, respectively. It is also used to treat varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which causes chickenpox and shingles.