Acyclovir Flashcards
What are the therapeutic uses of Acyclovir?
IV: Treats severe viral infections in immunocompromised clients. Oral: Treats severe viral infections in clients with normal immune systems. Topical: Treats cold sores, initial genital herpes outbreaks, and mild viral skin infections.
What are the major adverse effects of topical Acyclovir?
Burning, itching at the application site (temporary).
What are the major adverse effects of oral Acyclovir?
GI issues (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), headache, vertigo.
What are the major adverse effects of IV Acyclovir?
Renal toxicity, CNS toxicity (restlessness, tremors, psychosis, seizures), thrombophlebitis, and tissue damage from IV infiltration.
What interventions should be taken when administering IV Acyclovir?
Infuse IV slowly, hydrate client during and for 2 hours after infusion to maintain urine output, monitor for CNS effects, and assess IV site frequently.
How should topical Acyclovir be applied to prevent cross-contamination?
Wear gloves when applying; instruct clients to wear gloves or use finger cots.
What instructions should be given to clients using Acyclovir?
Avoid scratching application site, avoid getting topical form into eyes, take oral form with food if GI symptoms occur, and report persistent GI or CNS effects.
What should be done for clients with genital herpes who are taking Acyclovir?
Instruct on condom use to prevent transmission and advise yearly Pap smears for individuals with a vagina.
What are the contraindications for Acyclovir?
Allergy to Acyclovir or Valacyclovir; buccal form contraindicated for those with milk protein allergy.
What precautions should be taken with Acyclovir?
Use cautiously in clients with renal insufficiency, neurologic disorders, or dehydration.
What drug interactions can increase Acyclovir toxicity?
Probenecid increases blood levels; Zidovudine increases CNS effects; nephrotoxic medications increase risk for renal toxicity.
