Acyclovir Side effects

. Renal toxicity: precipitation of acyclovir crystals can occur in renal tubules if the maximum solubility of free acyclovir (2.5mg/ml at 37° C in water) is exceeded or if the drug is given by bolus injection. Serum creatinine and BUN rise and creatinine clearance decreases.

. Encephalopathic changes: Approximately 1% of patients receiving IV acyclovir manifested encephalopathic changes characterized by lethargy, obtundation, tremors, confusion, hallucinations, agitation, seizures or coma.

. Other: transient elevation of serum creatinine; rash or hives; diaphoresis; hematuria; hypotension; headache and nausea; thrombocytosis.

. Short-term therapy: nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, fatigue, skin rash, edema. inguinal adenopahty, anorexia, leg pain, medication taste, sore throat.

. Long-term: nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, headache, vertigo, insomina, irritability, depression, skin rash, acne. accelerated hair loss, arthralgia, fever, palpitations, sore throat, musclecramps, mestrual abnormalities, lyphadenopathy.