Nucleoside antiviral
Acyclovir with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Acyclovir (Acyclovir). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Acyclovir at 200mg, 400mg, 800mg, but a few classes do, and a small number of combinations are best avoided.
Common antibiotic interactions
Macrolides (clarithromycin, erythromycin) and certain antifungals can inhibit hepatic metabolism (CYP3A4) and raise plasma levels of many medications including some Nucleoside antiviral agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Acyclovir at 200mg, 400mg, 800mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Acyclovir, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Acyclovir is co-administered. Adjusted 200mg, 400mg, 800mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Acyclovir during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Acyclovir is metabolised and may need a temporary 200mg, 400mg, 800mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Acyclovir regimen.
Will antibiotics make Acyclovir stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Acyclovir efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Acyclovir levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
Products containing Acyclovir
More on Acyclovir
- With alcoholAcyclovir and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Acyclovir be taken with food?
- Side effectsAcyclovir side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideAcyclovir dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Acyclovir start working?
- DurationHow long does Acyclovir last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.