Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by the herpes simplex virus, including genital herpes and cold sores. According to Drug Patent Watch [1], acyclovir is available in various forms such as oral tablets, capsules, topical creams, and intravenous injections. The medication works by preventing the virus from multiplying and spreading in the body.

Stopping acyclovir treatment abruptly may cause a relapse of herpes symptoms. A study published in the US National Library of Medicine [2] found that discontinuing acyclovir treatment in patients with herpes simplex virus infections led to a higher rate of recurrence of symptoms. The study recommends that patients with herpes simplex virus infections should continue acyclovir treatment for at least six months to prevent relapse.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [3] also recommend that patients with recurrent genital herpes should continue antiviral therapy for as long as outbreaks occur. The CDC recommends daily suppressive therapy with acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir to reduce the frequency of outbreaks and decrease the risk of transmission to sexual partners.

In conclusion, stopping acyclovir treatment may cause a relapse of herpes symptoms. Patients with herpes simplex virus infections should continue antiviral therapy for at least six months to prevent relapse. Daily suppressive therapy with acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir is recommended by the CDC to reduce the frequency of outbreaks and decrease the risk of transmission to sexual partners.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/ACYCLOVIR
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2602638/
[3] https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/herpes.htm