Indications

Acerux is indicated for the treatment of Herpes simplex keratitis.

Pharmacology

Acyclovir is an antiviral agent which is highly active in vitro against Herpes simplex (HSV) types I and II and Varicella zoster viruses, but its toxicity to mammalian cells is low. Acyclovir is phosphorylated to the active compound Acyclovir triphosphate after entry into herpes infected cell. The ­first step in this process requires the presence of the viral-coded thymidine kinase. Acyclovir triphosphate acts as an inhibitor of and substrate for the herpes specifi­ed DNA polymerase preventing further viral DNA synthesis without affecting normal cellular processes.

Dosage & Administration

The dosage for all age groups is the same. A 10 mm ribbon of the ointment should be placed inside the lower conjunctival sac ­five times a day at approximately four hourly intervals. Treatment should continue for at least 3 days after healing

Interaction

No clinically signi­ficant interactions have been identi­fied.

Contraindications

Acyclovir is contraindicated in patients known to be hypersensitive to Acyclovir or Valacyclovir

Side Effects

Very common: Superfi­cial punctate keratopathy. This did not necessitate an early termination of therapy and healed without apparent sequelae. Common: Transient mild stinging of the eye occurring immediately following application, conjunctivitis. Rare: Blepharitis.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy category B. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Acyclovir in pregnant women. It is not known whether topically applied Acyclovir is excreted in breast milk.

Precautions & Warnings

The recommended dosage, frequency of applications, and length of treatment should not be exceeded.

Overdose Effects

No adverse effects would be expected if the entire contents of the tube containing 90 mg Acerux were ingested orally.

Therapeutic Class

Ophthalmic Anti-viral Products

Storage Conditions

Store in a cool and dry place. Keep away from light. Keep out of reach of children. Do not touch the tip of the tube since this may contaminate the product. After one month of the opening do not use the medicine of tube.
Pack Image of Acerux 3% Eye Ointment Pack Image: Acerux 3% Eye Ointment