Acyclovir. Pharmacology and clinical experience.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Virology
• Nephrology

Background:

• Acyclovir is a selective antiviral medication targeting herpes viruses.
• Its efficacy stems from exploiting differences between viral and host cell enzymes.
• Renal excretion is the primary elimination pathway for acyclovir.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the therapeutic applications of acyclovir.
• To outline its mechanism of action and pharmacokinetic profile.
• To discuss its use in immunocompromised and non-immunocompromised patient populations.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of acyclovir's clinical applications.
• Analysis of its selective mechanism against herpes viruses.
• Examination of its pharmacokinetic properties, including renal elimination.

Main Results:

• Acyclovir demonstrates effectiveness in preventing and treating herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections in immunocompromised individuals.
• It is beneficial for herpes zoster and varicella in immunocompromised patients.
• In non-immunocompromised patients, acyclovir aids in treating herpes keratoconjunctivitis and genital herpes, particularly primary infections.

Conclusions:

• Acyclovir is a valuable agent for managing herpes virus infections across different patient groups.
• Renal function significantly impacts acyclovir clearance, necessitating dose adjustments.
• Potential toxicities include phlebitis, local irritation, and reversible renal dysfunction.