Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat herpes infections, including genital herpes, shingles, and chickenpox [3]. The medication works by stopping the growth and spread of the virus [3]. Discontinuing acyclovir can have several risks, depending on the reason for which it was prescribed.

One of the main risks of discontinuing acyclovir is the reactivation of the herpes virus [2]. Herpes is a viral infection that can cause painful blisters or sores on the skin or mucous membranes [2]. Once a person is infected with herpes, the virus remains in the body and can reactivate at any time, causing symptoms to reappear [2]. Acyclovir helps to prevent the reactivation of the virus, reducing the frequency and severity of outbreaks [2]. Discontinuing acyclovir can lead to the reactivation of the virus and the return of symptoms [2].

Another risk of discontinuing acyclovir is the development of drug-resistant strains of the virus [2]. When a person takes acyclovir, the medication works to stop the growth and spread of the virus [3]. However, if the medication is discontinued prematurely, the virus may mutate and become resistant to the drug [2]. This can make future outbreaks more difficult to treat and may require the use of stronger medications.

Finally, discontinuing acyclovir can lead to the development of complications from herpes infections [1]. Herpes infections can cause a range of complications, including encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord), and neonatal herpes (herpes infection in newborns) [1]. Acyclovir helps to prevent these complications by reducing the frequency and severity of outbreaks [1]. Discontinuing the medication can increase the risk of these complications.

In conclusion, discontinuing acyclovir can have several risks, including the reactivation of the herpes virus, the development of drug-resistant strains of the virus, and the development of complications from herpes infections. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider before discontinuing any medication, including acyclovir, to understand the potential risks and benefits of doing so.

Sources:
[1] Drug Patent Watch. Acyclovir. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/ACYCLOVIR
[2] National Center for Biotechnology Information. Acyclovir. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4371028/
[3] MedlinePlus. Acyclovir. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a681045.html