What Is the Correct Acyclovir Dosage?
Acyclovir, also known as “acyclovir”, is an antiviral drug used to treat infections caused by the herpes virus (herpes simplex), such as cold sores and genital herpes. It is also used to treat chickenpox and shingles.
If you have herpes, chickenpox, or shingles, using acyclovir can reduce the severity and duration of your symptoms. If you have symptoms of genital herpes, we strongly recommend that you get tested and avoid sexual activity before consulting a doctor.
It is important to recognize the symptoms of genital herpes and see a doctor as soon as possible.
Symptoms can include:
- Itching
- Small blisters that form around the anus, genitals, and thighs and burst, leaving ulcers
- Pain when urinating
- Burning sensation in the vagina after intercourse
- Vaginal discharge
Unfortunately, there is no treatment that will cure genital herpes. However, acyclovir tablets are effective in managing the symptoms of genital herpes, including promoting wound healing and preventing new outbreaks.
The beneficial effects of acyclovir on herpes, chickenpox and shingles outbreaks usually take several days to appear. Taking acyclovir can reduce the duration and severity of symptoms. People with weakened immune systems and reduced ability to fight infections can take acyclovir to fight the above viruses.
In the UK, acyclovir requires a prescription from a doctor or pharmacist. You will be checked to see if you qualify for treatment for genital herpes, and your prescription will be issued in a pharmacy, online or over the counter.
To buy acyclovir tablets online, visit our online pharmacy. Once approved by your pharmacist, we will send you the medicine in discreet packaging to ensure complete confidentiality.
Dosages vary depending on why the treatment is prescribed. Here we look at the differences in dosages and why they are commonly prescribed.
Dosage Differences
Acyclovir is prescribed in different doses, depending on the infection you are treating. Acyclovir is available in three doses: 200 mg, 400 mg, and 800 mg. These doses are available in tablet or capsule form.
Genericpharmamall offers 400 mg acyclovir tablets in quantities of 15 tablets (single dose), 30 tablets (two doses), 45 tablets (three doses), and 180 tablets (three months of suppression).
So, let’s look at these three main doses individually and see how they are typically used.
Acyclovir 200mg
Acyclovir 200mg is the lowest dose of acyclovir available by prescription in tablet form. If you have genital herpes, are infected for the first time, or are experiencing a recurrence, a dose of acyclovir 200 mg may be prescribed.
It is generally recommended to take 200 mg of acyclovir five times a day for five days, with each dose spaced approximately 3-4 hours apart. If symptoms become severely worse, your doctor may recommend treatment for more than five days. Acyclovir 200 mg can also be used as a general treatment for cold sores.
Acyclovir 400mg
This is the dose of acyclovir 400mg usually given for the prevention of herpes that causes recurrent symptoms. The sooner you start treatment after herpes symptoms (sores, blisters, or burns) appear, the sooner the medication will provide relief.
The usual dosage during an attack is one tablet taken three times a day for the prescribed number of days (usually five days). This dosage can also be given to prevent herpes recurrences and is usually taken twice a day for three to six months as recommended by your doctor.
Acyclovir 800mg
Acyclovir 800mg tablets are usually used to treat viral infections such as chickenpox and shingles. When taking acyclovir 800mg to treat chickenpox, the usual dosage is 800mg taken four times a day for five days, as soon as symptoms appear. For shingles, the dosage is usually 800mg taken five times a day for seven to ten days.
As mentioned above, the dosage of acyclovir varies depending on the condition being treated. Your doctor will tell you how long you should take acyclovir, so be sure to follow their instructions and any recommendations on how often you should take it.
Genericpharmamall offers treatments for genital herpes, including options to manage outbreaks and help prevent future outbreaks. Always read the package insert and follow your doctor’s recommendations before starting any treatment.
For more information on acyclovir, see our is acyclovir article and our acyclovir reviews page.
If you are suffering from genital herpes and want to know more about which medication is best for you, check out our guide Best Treatment for Genital Herpes. We also stock other popular herpes medications, such as valacyclovir tablets (also known as Valtrex).

