Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat herpes virus infections, including genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chickenpox. The duration of treatment with acyclovir depends on the condition being treated and the severity of the infection.
According to the drug patent watch website [1], the duration of treatment with acyclovir can range from 5 to 10 days for herpes simplex virus infections, up to 10 days for varicella-zoster virus infections, and up to 14 days for herpes zoster infections.
The NHS website [2] recommends taking acyclovir for the full course of treatment prescribed by a doctor, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. The medication should be taken at regular intervals throughout the day, with or without food, and should be swallowed whole with water.
MedlinePlus [3] also recommends taking acyclovir for the full prescribed length of time, even if symptoms improve. The medication should be taken exactly as directed by a healthcare provider and should not be stopped or changed without consulting a doctor.
In conclusion, the duration of treatment with acyclovir depends on the specific condition being treated and the severity of the infection. It is important to take acyclovir for the full course of treatment prescribed by a doctor, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/ACYCLOVIR
[2] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/aciclovir/how-and-when-to-take-or-use-aciclovir/
[3] https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a681045.html