Many people suffer from sexually transmitted infections such as Genital Herpes, which is a viral infection and is caused by the herpes simplex virus. Such infections can be spread through unprotected sexual intercourse, having multiple sex partners, frequent changing of sex partners, sharing sex toys with an infected partner and becoming sexually active at a very young age. Genital herpes, just like any other sexually transmitted infection, is known to affect sexually active men as well women. This is especially true for those who are young and are between 20 to 24 years old. The genital herpes infection is found to affect the areas of genitals, anus and rectum. Genital herpes, unfortunately is an infection that cannot be completely cured. But fortunately, it can be treated with the help of antiviral medications such as Acyclovir.

Many a times, it is observed that the sexually transmitted infections are often misdiagnosed as some normal skin infection. And so it can happen that genital herpes infection is left untreated, which ultimately can become life threatening by spreading into other parts of your body and making you vulnerable for getting infected with HIV. So it is important to get yourself diagnosed for genital herpes if you have had unprotected sexual intercourse with your partner. You can get yourself diagnosed with the help of the genital herpes test kit. If the results of your test are positive, it indicates that you are infected with genital herpes, and should immediately consult your doctor for further treatment. The doctors usually prescribe Acyclovir dosage for those who have been infected and are experiencing the first outbreak of the infection

Acyclovir works by preventing the spread of the herpes virus in your body, by inhibiting the growth and multiplication of the virus. This in turn, gives you natural defences enough strength to fight off the virus. It is known by the brand name of Zovirax, and apart from being a treatment for genital herpes, can also help in the treatment of cold sores and shingles. Aciclovir is available in the dosage strength of 200 mg, 400 mg and 800 mg. Usually, in the initial stage, you are asked to take the 200 mg dosage, which you are required to 5 times a days for up to 5 days. You can take the this tablet with a full glass of water, either with or without food. You can take Acyclovir if you are 18 years of age, but should be avoided by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, those suffering from diabetes and are taking medications such as cimetidine and ciclosporin.

It is also advisable to inform your doctor if you are allergic to any other drugs or Acyclovir itself and if you are suffering from kidney disease. Just like any other antivirals, even this drug can cause certain side effects in you. Some of these side effects include headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, pain in the lower back, swelling in your hands or feet, unusual weakness, dizziness, loss of appetite, feeling light headed, stomach pain and urinating less than usual or not at all. Acyclovir can also interact with other medications that you are taking and lead to any of the side effects mentioned above. So it is important that you inform you doctor about any drugs, including vitamins, minerals, herbal drugs or any other drugs that you are taking.