Aciclovir eye ointment bnf

Aciclovir Eye Ointment is a medication used to treat viral infection of the eye caused by Herpes simplex virus and other herpes viruses. The active ingredient, aciclovir, belongs to a class of antiviral drugs that work by stopping the spread of the virus in the affected cells.

The ointment is applied directly to the infected area of the eye, usually five times per day. It is important to follow the dosage instructions as instructed by the doctor. Overuse of the ointment can lead to resistance and prolonged infection.

Some of the common side effects of Aciclovir Eye Ointment include stinging, burning, itching, and redness of the eye. Less common but serious side effects include severe allergic reactions, vision changes, and infection of the eye. If any of these symptoms occur, immediate medical attention should be sought.

Aciclovir Eye Ointment is listed in the British National Formulary, a reference used by healthcare professionals for prescribing medications in the UK. As with any medication, it is important to consult with a doctor before use, and to inform them of any allergies or other medical conditions.

What is Aciclovir Eye Ointment?

Definition

Aciclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat viral infections such as herpes simplex virus infections, varicella-zoster virus infections, and cytomegalovirus infections. It is available in many forms including oral tablets, topical creams, and eye ointments.

Uses

Aciclovir Eye Ointment is used to treat herpes simplex virus infections of the eye, also known as ocular herpes. Ocular herpes can cause inflammation and scarring, leading to vision problems or even blindness. Aciclovir Eye Ointment may also be used prophylactically to prevent recurrent herpes simplex virus infections in immunocompromised patients.

Dosage

The recommended dose of Aciclovir Eye Ointment varies depending on the severity of the infection. Typically, a small amount of ointment is applied to the affected eye 5 times per day, every 4 hours during waking hours. Treatment may continue for up to 14 days.

Side Effects

Temporary eye irritation or stinging sensation
Blurred vision
Redness or swelling of the eye
In rare cases, hypersensitivity reactions such as itching or rash may occur

Consult a healthcare professional if you experience any side effects or have any concerns about using Aciclovir Eye Ointment.

How Does Aciclovir Eye Ointment Work?

The Science Behind Aciclovir Eye Ointment

Aciclovir eye ointment is a medication that is used to treat viral eye infections. The medication is an antiviral agent that works by slowing down the growth and spread of the virus that is causing the infection. Aciclovir is part of a group of medications called nucleoside analogues, which work by interfering with the replication of viral DNA. When the virus is unable to replicate, it is no longer able to spread and cause further damage.

Targeting Herpes Simplex Virus

Aciclovir eye ointment is most commonly used to treat a specific type of viral eye infection known as herpes simplex virus (HSV) keratitis. HSV is a highly contagious virus that can cause painful, blister-like sores on the skin or mucous membranes. In the case of HSV keratitis, the virus has infected the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye. By targeting HSV, aciclovir eye ointment is able to reduce the severity and duration of this type of infection.

Aciclovir eye ointment does not cure the viral infection, but it can help to control the symptoms and prevent the virus from spreading to other parts of the eye or to other people. It is important to use the medication as directed by a healthcare professional to ensure that it is effective and safe.

Important Note: Aciclovir eye ointment should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. It is not recommended for individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to aciclovir or any other component of the medication.

Uses of Aciclovir Eye Ointment

Treatment of Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infections

Aciclovir eye ointment is primarily used to treat infections caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which can affect the eye. HSV infections can cause symptoms such as redness, pain, and discharge from the eye. Aciclovir eye ointment can help to reduce the severity and duration of these symptoms, and also reduces the risk of complications such as scarring and vision loss.

Preventing Recurrent HSV Infections

In addition to treating active HSV infections, aciclovir eye ointment can also be used to prevent recurrent infections in people who have a history of these infections. People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or undergoing chemotherapy, are especially at risk of recurrent HSV infections. Using aciclovir eye ointment can help to prevent these infections from flaring up.

Other Uses

Aciclovir eye ointment may also be used in the treatment or prevention of other viral infections that affect the eyes, such as varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infections. However, it should only be used for these purposes under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

It is important to note that aciclovir eye ointment is not effective against all types of eye infections, such as those caused by bacteria or fungi. It should only be used for the specific conditions for which it has been prescribed.

Dosage of Aciclovir Eye Ointment

For Treatment of Herpes Simplex Keratitis

The recommended dosage for the treatment of herpes simplex keratitis is to apply a thin ribbon of Aciclovir eye ointment into the affected eye(s) five times per day at approximately 4-hourly intervals, omitting the night time application. The recommended duration of treatment is usually 7-10 days, although this may vary depending on the severity of the infection and the response of the patient.

For Prevention of Herpes Simplex Infections in Immunocompetent Patients

The recommended dosage for the prevention of herpes simplex infections in immunocompetent patients is to apply a thin ribbon of Aciclovir eye ointment into the affected eye(s) four times per day at approximately 6-hourly intervals. The recommended duration of prophylactic treatment is usually 12 months or until the patient's immune status is stabilized.

For Prevention of Herpes Simplex Infections in Immunocompromised Patients

The recommended dosage for the prevention of herpes simplex infections in immunocompromised patients with herpes simplex virus keratitis is to apply a thin ribbon of Aciclovir eye ointment into the affected eye(s) five times per day at approximately 4-hourly intervals.

It is important to follow the dosage instructions as prescribed by a healthcare professional and not use Aciclovir eye ointment for longer than recommended. If symptoms persist or worsen during treatment, patients should seek medical advice to ensure that the diagnosis is correct and appropriate treatment is being given.

Side Effects of Aciclovir Eye Ointment

Common Side Effects

Aciclovir eye ointment is generally a safe treatment option for herpes simplex virus infections of the eye, but there are common side effects that can occur. These side effects include:

Burning or stinging sensation in the eye
Itching or irritation of the eye
Blurry vision or other changes in vision
Dry or watery eyes
Sensitivity to light

Less Common Side Effects

Though rare, there are some less common side effects associated with aciclovir eye ointment. These include:

Headaches
Fatigue or weakness
Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Allergic reactions, such as swelling or redness of the eye

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience any severe side effects or allergic reactions while using aciclovir eye ointment, it's important to seek medical attention immediately. Signs of a severe reaction may include difficulty breathing, chest pain, or a rash that spreads across the body.

If you experience any persistent or concerning side effects, you should also speak with your doctor or pharmacist about adjusting your dosage or finding an alternative treatment option.

Aciclovir eye ointment bnf