NHS information about aciclovir, including what it's used for, who can use it, how to use it and side effects. The acyclovir oral tablet is used to treat viral infections like shingles, genital herpes, and chickenpox. This form is available as both a generic drug and the brand-name drug Zovirax. It comes as a tablet, capsule, and liquid suspension. Depending on your condition, you might need to take it by mouth 2 to 5 times a day. Acyclovir works best when you start it as soon as symptoms begin. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Intravenous aciclovir is effective in treating severe medical conditions caused by different species of the herpes virus family, including severe localized infections of the herpes virus, severe genital herpes, chickenpox and herpesviral encephalitis. Although acyclovir will not cure shingles or genital herpes, it does help relieve the pain and discomfort and helps the sores heal faster. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription. This product is available in the following dosage forms: Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus in the body. Acyclovir will not cure herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection. Acyclovir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, such as genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chicken pox. Aciclovir 400 Tablet is an antiviral medicine effective against herpes simplex and varicella zoster viruses. It does not cure infections caused by these viruses but helps to minimize the symptoms and shorten the duration of infection. Find patient medical information for Acyclovir (Zovirax) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used primarily to treat herpes infections, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles. Dosage varies widely depending on the condition being treated, the patient’s age, and kidney function. Acyclovir (Zovirax) capsules or tablets treat viral infections. They don’t treat colds, the flu or bacterial infections.