Acyclovir 3% drops is an antiviral medicine used to treat conditions like inflammation in cornea (Acute herpetic keratitis). It works by stopping the virus from multiplying. Take it exactly as prescribed, don’t skip doses or take more than recommended. Common side effects include redness, swelling, or tiredness, and more serious issues can occur if taken improperly. If someone overdoses or shows unusual symptoms, get medical help immediately. 
Let your doctor know if you’re pregnant, have kidney issues, or a weakened immune system, as acyclovir can pose risks in these cases. Avoid alcohol while on this medication. Store it in a cool, dry place out of children’s reach. Always talk to your doctor before making any changes to your dose or if you’re taking other medications. 

Acyclovir 3% ointment is an topical ointment belonging to the class of antivirals medicines. It is used for following indications: 

1. Inflammation in cornea (Acute herpetic keratitis) 

More Common

1. Eye pain or sting 
2. Painful irritation of the clear front part of the eye 
3. Redness, itching, pain, swelling, or other irritation of the eye 

Less Common

1. Abdominal or stomach pain 
2. Decreased frequency of urination or amount of urine 
3. Increased thirst 
4. Loss of appetite 
5. Nausea or vomiting 
6. Unusual tiredness or weakness 

Acyclovir works by pretending to be part of the virus’s DNA, but once the virus uses it, it can not keep copying itself. To show its action, acyclovir needs to be activated by the virus first.

Pregnancy

Acyclovir can easily cross the placental barrier and reach the fetus. Although studies on the use of acyclovir during pregnancy are limited, it is important to inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to conceive.

Kidney Dysfunction

Since this medicine is excreted through the kidneys and its use may further impair kidney function, it is best to inform your doctor if you have any kidney-related conditions.

Weak Immune System

People with weakened immune systems should inform their doctor, as taking this medication may increase the risk of developing conditions such as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS).

1. Begin by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water, both before and after applying the medication.
2. Tilt your head back gently. Using a finger, softly pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
3. Carefully apply a thin strip of the ointment into this pocket, between your lower eyelid and eye. Close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the medicine to spread. You can wipe away any extra ointment that may appear.
4. Use a clean tissue to wipe the tip of the tube, then ensure it is tightly closed after each use.
5. To avoid contamination, do not let the tip of the tube touch any surface, including your eye. Always keep the container sealed when not in use. Using contaminated eye ointment can cause serious eye infections and may even lead to vision loss.

Avoid taking acyclovir 3% drops with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal: 

Acyclovir does not interact with any food products, but alcohol should be avoided before and after taking the medicine, as it can increase or decrease the effect of the medicine. 

1. The medicine should be stored at room temperature  
2. Keep away from sunlight and moisture  
3. Keep away from the reach of children 

IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name

2-amino-9-(2-hydroxyethoxymethyl)-1H-purin-6-one. 

Daily Dose

Take acyclovir exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage.

Overdose

Do not use it more than 5 times a day as it can cause overdosing symptoms. If you are also experiencing overdosing symptoms, then immediately seek medical attention. attention 

1- What are the uses of Acyclovir eye drops?

Acyclovir eye drops are used to treat inflammation of the cornea caused by the herpes simplex virus, a condition known as acute herpetic keratitis.

2- What is the price of Acyclovir eye drops?

At SayaCare, Acyclovir eye drops are priced at ₹25, which is 80% lower than the market price.

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2. NHS. How and when to take or use aciclovir [Internet]. London: NHS; 2022 Jul 1 [cited 2025 May 22]. Available from. 
3. Drugs.com. Acyclovir: Patient tips [Internet]. Drugs.com; c2000–2025 [cited 2025 May 22]. Available from. 
4. DrugBank. Acyclovir: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action [Internet]. Edmonton (AB): DrugBank; [cited 2025 May 22]. Available from.