Aciclovir is used to treat a viral infection of the eye known as herpes simplex keratitis.
Apply Aciclovir eye ointment in the affected eye(s) exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.
To use the eye ointment, follow these steps:
- Wash and dry your hands before applying the ointment.
- With your index finger, pull the lower eyelid down the eye to form a pouch.
- Hold the tube with your other hand and place it as near to your eyelid as possible without touching it. Squeeze a thin strip of ointment (about 1 cm unless otherwise stated) into the pouch.
- Gently close your eyes and keep them closed for 1-2 minutes.
- Wipe any excess ointment from the eyelids and lashes with a clean tissue. With another clean tissue, wipe the tip of the tube clean.
- Replace and tighten the cap of the tube.
- Wash your hands to remove any medication.
Do not allow the tip of the tube of this medicine to touch your eyes, eyelids, or any other surface. Recap the eye ointment tube immediately after use. If the eye ointment becomes contaminated, it could cause further infection in your eyes.
Do not share your eye ointment with anyone else.
Avoid wearing contact lenses while you are using this medicine.
Apply Aciclovir at regular intervals. Do not skip any doses. You must complete the entire course of this medicine. If you don't, the infection will not be properly controlled.
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose to make up for a missed dose.
If you often forget to apply your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Do not use Aciclovir if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or similar medicines such as valaciclovir.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Aciclovir to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Aciclovir may cause your vision to be temporarily blurred. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to see clearly.
Other side effects include any of the following: temporary irritation, burning or stinging sensation in the eye after application and itchy and watery eye.
If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop using Aciclovir and inform your doctor immediately. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Store below 25°C, away from the reach of children.
Throw away any remaining eye ointment 4 weeks after opening. Mark the date of opening on the eye ointment bottle so that you know when to discard it.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Sign Out
