Buy Aciclovir (Aciclovir) online in the USA — dosing, uses, price, and safety

Product Name	Aciclovir (Acyclovir)
Dosage	200 mg, 400 mg, 800 mg
Active Ingredient	Aciclovir
Form	Oral tablets; 5% topical cream/ointment; oral suspension
Description	Prescription antiviral used in the USA for herpes simplex (oral/genital), shingles (herpes zoster), and chickenpox (varicella). Not intended for COVID-19.
How to Order Without Prescription	Prescription required in the USA; streamlined telehealth/e‑prescription options available

Aciclovir (often spelled acyclovir in the USA) is an established antiviral medicine that has been used for decades to manage infections caused by herpesviruses. In the United States, aciclovir is available by prescription in multiple formulations, including oral tablets (200 mg, 400 mg, and 800 mg), a 5% topical cream/ointment for cold sores, and an oral suspension for patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets. Brand names historically used in the U.S. include Zovirax and Sitavig (a buccal tablet), with many widely available generics that help keep costs accessible.

Aciclovir is not a cure for herpes; however, it can shorten the duration of outbreaks, reduce symptom severity, speed up healing, and lower the risk of transmission when taken as directed. Early initiation—ideally at the first signs of tingling, burning, or itching (prodrome)—improves effectiveness for cold sores and genital herpes recurrences. For shingles, therapy is most effective when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing.

Aciclovir price and affordability in the USA

In the U.S., the out-of-pocket cost of aciclovir can vary depending on insurance coverage, pharmacy choice, dosage strength, and quantity. Generics are typically much more economical than legacy brands. Many pharmacies and telehealth platforms offer discount programs or coupons, and some employer or insurer plans include aciclovir on preferred formularies. To get the best value, compare prices across reputable pharmacies and confirm coverage with your insurer. The per-tablet cost is usually lower for larger quantities, which can be helpful for people on suppressive therapy. Always verify the final price at checkout, as real-time pricing may change.

Common factors that influence total cost include:

• tablet strength (200 mg vs 400 mg vs 800 mg)
• intended regimen (acute outbreak treatment vs long-term suppression)
• use of topical cream/ointment in addition to tablets
• shipping preferences and delivery times
• coupon eligibility and pharmacy membership programs

Where can I buy Aciclovir in the USA?

In the United States, aciclovir is a prescription medication. You can obtain it through licensed pharmacies with a valid prescription from a U.S. healthcare professional. Many patients prefer the convenience of online checkout and home delivery through pharmacy partners that accept e‑prescriptions from primary care providers, dermatologists, OB/GYNs, infectious disease specialists, or telehealth clinicians.

If you don’t yet have a prescription, telemedicine services can often provide a same-day evaluation for eligible patients and, when clinically appropriate, send an e‑prescription directly to a partner pharmacy for quick dispensing and discreet shipping to your address. Always choose accredited pharmacies and U.S.-licensed clinicians.

For those managing recurrent herpes outbreaks or considering suppressive therapy, discuss your history and goals with your clinician. They can help tailor an aciclovir plan that balances convenience, cost, and clinical effectiveness.

Aciclovir in the U.S.: overview

Securing aciclovir in the U.S. is straightforward with a valid prescription. After an online doctor visit or an in‑person consultation, your prescription can be processed by a participating U.S. pharmacy and shipped to your home. The process is designed to be secure, compliant with U.S. regulations, and user-friendly, ensuring you have timely access to the treatment you need.

What is aciclovir and how does it work?

Aciclovir is a nucleoside analog antiviral that selectively targets herpesviruses. After entering virus-infected cells, it is converted by viral thymidine kinase into aciclovir monophosphate and subsequently into its active triphosphate form by human cellular enzymes. Aciclovir triphosphate competitively inhibits viral DNA polymerase and becomes incorporated into viral DNA, causing chain termination. This halts viral replication and helps the immune system control the infection.

Aciclovir is effective against herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV‑1), herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV‑2), and varicella-zoster virus (VZV, the cause of chickenpox and shingles). It is not effective for influenza, the common cold, or COVID‑19. When used appropriately, aciclovir is well tolerated and has a long record of clinical use in the United States.

Aciclovir for cold sores (orolabial herpes)

Cold sores, also called fever blisters, are typically caused by HSV‑1. They often begin with a prodrome of tingling, burning, or itching near the lip, followed by clustered blisters that can crust and heal within 7–10 days. Aciclovir can shorten the healing time and lessen discomfort, especially when started promptly.

Common oral dosing strategies for adults include one of the following, as directed by your clinician:

• 200 mg by mouth five times daily for 5 days, or
• 400 mg by mouth three times daily for 5 days, or
• 800 mg by mouth twice daily for 5 days

Topical 5% aciclovir cream/ointment can be applied at the earliest sign of an outbreak, typically 5 times daily for 4 days (or as labeled). For some patients with frequent recurrences, your clinician may recommend a short “episodic” course kept on hand to start at the first prodromal symptoms.

Aciclovir for genital herpes (HSV‑2 and HSV‑1)

Genital herpes is a common, chronic condition. While there is no cure, aciclovir can reduce the severity and frequency of outbreaks and lower the risk of transmission when combined with safer sex practices.

Initial episode dosing (adults)

Typical regimens include:

• 400 mg by mouth three times daily for 7–10 days, or
• 200 mg by mouth five times daily for 7–10 days

Your clinician may extend therapy if healing is incomplete after 10 days.

Recurrent episode dosing (episodic therapy)

Start at the earliest sign of recurrence:

• 400 mg by mouth three times daily for 5 days, or
• 800 mg by mouth twice daily for 5 days, or
• 800 mg by mouth three times daily for 2 days

Suppressive therapy

For patients with frequent or severe recurrences, daily suppressive therapy can significantly reduce outbreaks and asymptomatic viral shedding. A common adult regimen is 400 mg by mouth twice daily. Your clinician will help determine whether continuous suppression is appropriate and for how long.

Aciclovir for shingles (herpes zoster)

Shingles results from reactivation of VZV (the same virus that causes chickenpox) and typically presents with a painful, blistering rash in a single dermatome. Early antiviral treatment may shorten the duration of pain and accelerate healing.

Adults: 800 mg by mouth five times daily for 7–10 days. Begin therapy ideally within 72 hours of rash onset. Your clinician may also recommend adjunctive pain control. If the eye is involved (herpes zoster ophthalmicus), seek urgent evaluation by an eye specialist.

Aciclovir for chickenpox (varicella)

Aciclovir can be considered for certain higher-risk patients with chickenpox (e.g., adults and some adolescents), ideally within 24 hours of rash onset. In otherwise healthy children, supportive care is often sufficient, and antiviral therapy is not always necessary—follow your pediatrician’s guidance.

Adult dosing often used: 800 mg by mouth four times daily for 5 days. Pediatric dosing is weight-based and must be directed by a clinician (for example, 20 mg/kg per dose up to 800 mg, four times daily for 5 days, started within 24 hours of rash onset).

How to take aciclovir correctly

Take aciclovir exactly as prescribed. It may be taken with or without food. Swallow tablets with water and stay well hydrated throughout therapy, as this supports kidney function. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s nearly time for the next dose—don’t double up.

During active outbreaks, avoid skin-to-skin contact with affected areas, and use barrier protection to lower the risk of transmission. For genital herpes, abstain from sexual contact during symptoms and use condoms consistently between outbreaks. Discuss partner testing and counseling with your clinician.

Mechanism of action and resistance

By mimicking a natural nucleoside building block, aciclovir inhibits viral DNA polymerase and terminates DNA chain extension. This selective action requires viral thymidine kinase for activation, which is why aciclovir acts primarily in infected cells. Resistance can occur, most commonly via mutations in viral thymidine kinase or DNA polymerase, and is more frequent in immunocompromised patients or those with very prolonged exposure. In cases of suspected resistance, alternative antivirals may be considered under specialist care.

Side effects and safety profile

Aciclovir is generally well tolerated. Most side effects, if they occur, are mild and temporary. Not everyone will experience side effects.

Common side effects

• nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• abdominal discomfort
• headache
• fatigue
• dizziness

Less common or rare effects

• skin rash or itching
• elevations in liver enzymes
• changes in kidney function, particularly with dehydration or concomitant nephrotoxic drugs
• neurologic symptoms (e.g., confusion, agitation) typically in the setting of kidney impairment or very high doses

Seek immediate medical attention for signs of allergic reaction (e.g., hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/tongue) or severe skin reactions.

Kidney considerations

Aciclovir is eliminated primarily by the kidneys. Ensure adequate hydration, and inform your clinician if you have a history of kidney disease. Your dose or dosing interval may need adjustment based on kidney function to reduce the risk of side effects.

Drug interactions

Always provide your clinician and pharmacist with a full list of medications, supplements, and herbal products. Potential interactions include:

• probenecid and cimetidine (can increase aciclovir levels)
• other nephrotoxic agents (e.g., high-dose NSAIDs in some contexts, aminoglycosides, cyclosporine, tacrolimus) — concurrent use may raise kidney risk
• mycophenolate mofetil (coadministration can affect pharmacokinetics)

This list is not exhaustive. Your clinician may adjust dosing or monitor labs if needed.

Dosing adjustments for renal impairment

Because aciclovir is renally excreted, dose intervals are often extended when kidney function is reduced. Your prescriber will use your creatinine clearance or eGFR to tailor dosing. As a general principle:

• mild impairment: standard doses with monitoring or slightly extended intervals
• moderate impairment: reduce dosing frequency (for example, every 8–12 hours rather than 5 times daily for some regimens)
• severe impairment: further extend dosing interval; consider specialist input

Never adjust your dose on your own—follow your clinician’s instructions.

Pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding

Extensive clinical experience suggests aciclovir is generally considered acceptable in pregnancy when benefits outweigh risks. In the U.S., obstetric guidelines often recommend suppressive therapy near term for women with recurrent genital herpes to reduce the risk of lesions at delivery. Discuss timing and dosing with your OB/GYN.

Aciclovir is excreted in breast milk in low amounts. Breastfeeding is usually considered compatible with aciclovir use; however, decisions should be individualized in consultation with your pediatrician and obstetric provider. Avoid direct infant contact with active lesions and practice meticulous hand hygiene.

Aciclovir vs. valacyclovir and famciclovir

Valacyclovir is a prodrug of aciclovir with higher oral bioavailability, allowing less frequent dosing (e.g., twice daily for many indications). Famciclovir is a prodrug of penciclovir. All three are effective against HSV and VZV. Choice depends on cost, dosing convenience, insurance coverage, and clinical context. Your clinician can help select the best option for you. People satisfied with aciclovir’s results and dosing typically continue with it, particularly when cost savings are meaningful.

Counseling points for safe and effective use

• Start treatment as early as possible, especially at the first prodromal signs for recurrent herpes.
• Take doses evenly spaced throughout the day for regimens that require multiple daily doses.
• Stay well hydrated to support kidney function.
• Avoid contact with lesions and use barrier protection to reduce transmission risk.
• Do not share your medication and do not use expired tablets.
• Store at room temperature away from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is aciclovir an antibiotic?

No. Aciclovir is an antiviral. Antibiotics target bacteria, while antivirals like aciclovir target specific viruses such as HSV and VZV.

How quickly does aciclovir work?

Many people notice improvement within 24–48 hours when treatment is started early. The total time to healing depends on the site and severity of infection and how soon treatment begins.

Can aciclovir prevent transmission?

Daily suppressive therapy and consistent barrier protection can lower the risk of transmitting genital herpes to partners, but no strategy is 100% protective. Avoid sexual contact during symptomatic outbreaks. Discuss risk reduction with your clinician.

Can I drink alcohol while taking aciclovir?

There is no specific prohibition on moderate alcohol intake with aciclovir, but alcohol may worsen dehydration or interact with other medications you take. When unwell, minimizing alcohol is generally advisable. If in doubt, ask your clinician.

What if I have frequent outbreaks?

Suppressive therapy (daily aciclovir) can reduce outbreak frequency and improve quality of life. Your clinician will help choose a regimen and periodically reassess the need for continued suppression.

Does aciclovir treat COVID‑19 or the flu?

No. Aciclovir is not indicated for COVID‑19 or influenza. It specifically targets herpesviruses such as HSV‑1, HSV‑2, and VZV.

Special populations and clinical scenarios

Immunocompromised patients

People with compromised immunity may experience more severe or prolonged viral infections and can be at increased risk for resistance. They should be managed in close collaboration with infectious disease specialists. Dosing, duration, and monitoring may differ from standard regimens.

Ocular herpes

Herpetic eye disease requires prompt evaluation by an ophthalmologist. Topical and/or systemic antivirals may be necessary, and corticosteroids, if indicated, should be guided by an eye specialist to avoid complications.

Neonatal herpes

Neonatal infections are medical emergencies treated with intravenous antivirals in the hospital. Pregnant patients with a history of genital herpes should work with their OB/GYN to create a birth plan that minimizes neonatal risk.

Storage, handling, and disposal

Keep aciclovir in its original container at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Do not store in the bathroom. If you have leftover or expired medication, use a drug take-back program where available. If a program is not accessible, follow FDA guidance for safe at‑home disposal. Never flush medications unless specifically instructed.

When to contact a clinician

• if your symptoms worsen or do not improve after a full course
• if you develop severe headache, confusion, rash, or signs of allergic reaction
• if you have kidney disease and notice changes in urination or swelling
• if you’re pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding and need guidance on therapy
• if you experience frequent outbreaks and want to explore suppressive therapy

U.S. access: prescriptions, telehealth, and delivery

Aciclovir is prescription-only in the United States. If you do not have an active prescription, a licensed U.S. clinician can evaluate you via telemedicine in many states. When appropriate, they can issue an e‑prescription to a participating pharmacy for fast processing and delivery. Reputable platforms provide transparent pricing, trackable shipping, and responsive customer support. Always ensure the clinician and pharmacy are U.S.-licensed and compliant with state and federal rules.

Practical tips from our U.S. pharmacy partners

• Keep a small supply on hand for episodic therapy if you have frequent cold sore or genital herpes recurrences—ask your clinician for guidance.
• For shingles, starting within 72 hours is ideal. Seek care promptly if you suspect shingles, especially if the rash involves the face or eyes.
• If cost is a concern, ask about generic aciclovir, discount programs, or alternative dosing plans compatible with your insurance.
• Hydration matters—drink water regularly while taking aciclovir.

Recommendations from our specialists

Herpesviruses are common and manageable with evidence-based care. If you’re prone to recurrences, talk to your clinician about episodic therapy you can start at the first sign of symptoms or about daily suppression if outbreaks are frequent. U.S.-licensed telehealth services and partner pharmacies can streamline evaluation, e‑prescribing, and delivery to your door. Your health, privacy, and safety remain our top priorities.

Ready to take control? Order Aciclovir through a licensed U.S. pharmacy

Get fast, discreet delivery from trusted pharmacy partners. If you need a prescription, a licensed U.S. clinician can evaluate you online and, when appropriate, send an e‑prescription directly for fulfillment.

• U.S. prescription required — simple telehealth options available
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• FDA-approved generics from licensed manufacturers
• Budget-friendly options across multiple tablet strengths
• Knowledgeable support to help with dosing, refills, and coverage questions

Join countless patients across the United States who rely on accessible antiviral care. Start today and be prepared for the next outbreak with an evidence-based plan.

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