Acyclovir is a generic form of the brand name medication sold as Zovirax. Both of these medications are sold in oral forms and in an ointment or cream form. The oral form includes a 200 mg blue capsule, as well as 400 mg and 800 mg round blue tablets. You can also buy Acyclovir in a suspension, or liquid, form for children. In addition, Acyclovir comes in a topical form, containing 5% medication, that can be applied directly to the skin or mucous membranes. A health care professional can also give this medication via intravenous (IV) infusion.

How Do I Find the Right Dose?

The right dose really needs to be decided by a doctor. Your dose can vary, depending on why you need to take Acyclovir in the first place. Here are some recommended dosages, but be sure to get medical advice for your specific situation.

• For newly diagnosed genital herpes, 200 mg, every 4 hours (up to 5 times a day) for 10 days.
• For chronic genital herpes, 400 mg twice a day, 200 to 400 mg, 2 to 5 times a day, depending on the severity of your condition. This dosage level can continue for up to 12 months.
• For emerging new outbreaks of chronic genital herpes, 200 mg, taken every 4 hours up to 5 times a day for 5 days.
• For shingles, 800 mg, taken every 4 hours up to 5 times a day for 7 to 10 days.
• For chicken pox, the dose is based on the child’s weight and is given 4 times a day for 5 days. No single dose should be higher than 800 mg.
• At the first sign of a new oral herpes (cold sore) lesion, the lesion should be covered with a thin layer of cream or ointment every 3 hours, up to 6 times a day for 7 days.