Acyvir 5g Eye Ointment

Acyvir 5g Eye Ointment — Acyclovir

Generic Name: Acyclovir 3% w/w Eye Ointment

Manufacturer: Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Drug Class: Antiviral — Nucleoside Analogue (Ophthalmic)

Dosage Form: Eye Ointment

Pack Size: 5g tube

Prescription Status: Prescription Only (Rx)

Mechanism of Action

Acyclovir is selectively phosphorylated by herpes virus thymidine kinase in infected cells to its active triphosphate form, which inhibits viral DNA polymerase and terminates viral DNA chain elongation. Applied topically to the eye, acyclovir 3% ointment achieves therapeutic concentrations in the cornea and aqueous humour, making it effective against herpes simplex keratitis (HSK) — the leading infectious cause of corneal blindness globally.

Relevance to diabetes: Diabetics have impaired corneal healing and reduced cellular immunity, increasing the risk and severity of herpetic eye disease. Prompt topical antiviral treatment prevents corneal scarring and vision loss.

Indications

• Herpes simplex keratitis (dendritic and geographic ulcers)
• Herpes simplex keratoconjunctivitis
• Herpes simplex epithelial keratitis
• Prophylaxis of recurrent ocular herpes simplex

Dosage and Administration

Special Considerations in Diabetes

• Impaired corneal healing in diabetes — monitor closely; may need prolonged treatment
• Never combine with topical steroids without ophthalmologist supervision
• Consider oral prophylaxis after recurrent episodes
• Any eye pain, redness or sudden vision change in a diabetic — seek urgent ophthalmology review

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to acyclovir
• For ophthalmic use only — not for skin or ear use
• Do not use while wearing contact lenses

Side Effects

• Transient mild stinging or burning on application
• Superficial punctate keratopathy (rare)
• Allergic conjunctivitis (rare)
• Transient blurred vision after application

Storage

Store below 25°C. Do not freeze. Discard 4 weeks after opening. Keep out of reach of children.