acyclovir 333
The medicines in this section appear under their generic names, in the order of the
alphabet:
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
acetaminophen or paracetamol
(APAP, Panadol, Tempra, Tylenol,
others)
Acetaminophen and paracetamol are
2 names for the same medicine that is
used to ease pain and lower fever. See
paracetamol, page 350.
warning!
acyclovir
(Zovirax)
Acyclovir is a medicine that kills viruses
and is used to fight herpes, which can
cause painful blisters on the genitals and
anus, and in the mouth.
Important: Acyclovir will not stop
herpes from coming back, but it makes it
less painful and keeps it from spreading.
Side effects: May sometimes cause
headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting
Often comes in: Tablets of 200, 400,
or 800 mg; 5% ointment
The tablets are much more effective than
the ointment and usually cost less. Take
with lots of water.
How to use:
For genital herpes infection (see page
165), take 200 mg by mouth 5 times a
day for 7 to 10 days; or apply ointment
6 times a day for 7 days. Wash hands
immediately.
WARNING: Do not take this
medicine if you have kidney
problems.
adrenaline or epinephrine
Adrenaline and epinephrine are 2 names
for the same medicine. It is used for
severe allergic reactions or allergic shock,
and for severe asthma attacks. See
epinephrine, page 342.
A Health Handbook for Women with Disabilities 2007