WARNING: This is a potent antiviral medication intended for intravenous administration under strict medical supervision in a hospital or clinical setting. It is NOT for self-administration. This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Aciglotir® (Acyclovir) for IV Infusion
Summary
Aciglotir is a sterile, injectable antiviral medication manufactured by Global Pharmaceutical Industries (GPI). Its active ingredient is Acyclovir. It is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion to treat severe viral infections caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) and Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV). Due to its intravenous route, Aciglotir is used when high drug concentrations are needed quickly, particularly for serious infections in immunocompromised patients or infections involving the central nervous system, such as herpes encephalitis.
Manufacturer
Global Pharmaceutical Industries (GPI), Egypt.
Category & Active Ingredient
- Category: Antiviral, Synthetic Nucleoside Analogue.
- Active Ingredient: Acyclovir.
Available Forms & Strengths of Aciglotir®
Aciglotir is supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in vials, which must be reconstituted by a healthcare professional before intravenous infusion.
- Aciglotir 250 mg Vial: For IV infusion.
- Aciglotir 500 mg Vial: For IV infusion.
Properties and Mechanism of Action (Acyclovir)
Acyclovir is a synthetic purine nucleoside analogue. It is selectively converted into its active form, acyclovir triphosphate, by the viral enzyme thymidine kinase (TK). This selectivity means it is much more active in virus-infected cells than in normal cells. Acyclovir triphosphate then works by inhibiting the viral DNA polymerase enzyme and by being incorporated into the growing viral DNA chain, which stops the replication of the virus.
Indications for Aciglotir® (IV Acyclovir)
Intravenous Acyclovir is indicated for the treatment of severe initial and recurrent infections caused by susceptible viruses, including:
- Herpes Simplex Encephalitis: A serious infection of the brain.
- Severe Initial Genital Herpes in patients who are not immunocompromised.
- Mucocutaneous Herpes Simplex (HSV-1 and HSV-2) infections in immunocompromised patients.
- Varicella-Zoster (VZV) infections (shingles) in immunocompromised patients.
- Neonatal Herpes Simplex Virus infection in newborns.
Dosage and Administration
This medication must be administered by a healthcare professional. Dosage is highly individualized based on the type and severity of the infection, the patient's age, weight, and kidney function.
- Reconstitution and Dilution: The lyophilized powder in the Aciglotir vial must first be reconstituted and then further diluted in a larger volume of a compatible IV fluid.
- Administration: It is given as a slow intravenous infusion over a period of at least 1 hour to prevent kidney damage. It must NOT be given as a rapid IV push or bolus injection.
- Renal Impairment: Dosage must be significantly reduced in patients with impaired kidney function to prevent toxicity.
Side Effects
The most significant side effects of IV Acyclovir are related to the kidneys and the infusion site.
- Renal (Kidney) Effects: The most common adverse reaction is renal impairment or acute kidney injury, often due to the crystallization of the drug in the renal tubules.
- Infusion Site Reactions: Inflammation or phlebitis can occur at the injection site.
- Neurological Effects: Neurotoxicity can occur, particularly in the elderly or patients with renal failure, with symptoms like confusion, hallucinations, or tremors.
- Gastrointestinal: Nausea and vomiting are common.
Contraindications
Aciglotir is contraindicated in patients with a known history of hypersensitivity to Acyclovir or Valacyclovir.
Drug Interactions
- Nephrotoxic Drugs: Co-administration with other drugs that can harm the kidneys increases the risk of renal impairment.
- Probenecid: Can increase the concentration of acyclovir in the blood.
Precautions & Warnings
- Renal Function & Hydration: Kidney function must be monitored, and patients must be well-hydrated to reduce the risk of kidney damage.
- Rate of Infusion: The infusion must be administered slowly over at least one hour.
- Elderly Patients: Are at a higher risk for side effects and often require dose adjustments.
To compare this product with other Acyclovir IV brands available in Egypt, please visit our comprehensive guide and comparison hub.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is IV Acyclovir like Aciglotir used instead of pills?
IV Acyclovir is used for severe infections where high drug levels are needed immediately to control the virus, such as in brain infections or in people with weakened immune systems, where oral pills would not be strong or fast-acting enough. [1]
What is the most important thing to monitor during treatment with Aciglotir?
Kidney function is the most critical parameter. Healthcare providers will monitor urine output and perform blood tests to ensure the kidneys are handling the medication properly. [2]
Can Aciglotir cure herpes?
No. Acyclovir stops the virus from replicating, which helps control the infection and reduce symptoms, but it does not eliminate the virus from the body.
References
- U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus): For comprehensive information on Acyclovir Injection. Acyclovir Injection - MedlinePlus Drug Information
- Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA): For clinical practice guidelines on the management of infections like Herpes Encephalitis. IDSA Guidelines for Herpes Simplex Virus
- Product Information: Key information is also sourced from the manufacturer, Global Pharmaceutical Industries (GPI), regarding the Aciglotir® brand.
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