Acyclavir

[ozarkgirl]

In March 2009, I had my first and only experience with shingles.
My doctor proscribed acyclavir 800mg. taken once daily. My next
appointment was in June 2009, I asked if I needed to continue the
acyclovir,she said yes. In June a friend who has had shingles said
that she was worried that I had taken the drug for so long.....
My drug provider changed in Aug 2010, I was called to confirm the
dosage of my acyclovir, she immediatly changed the dosage to 400mg.
My doctor still has me taking it.
  From what I have read recently, it is only taken for 2 wks, 4wk maximum.
What if I am now immune to it...if really needed? Health concerns!!!
   please advise....

[Diane12855]

Are you sure it was shingles? Where did you break out at? I ask because I thought I had shingles for years... breaking out on my lower back.... turned out it was genital herpes. My first outbreak was when I was 5 months pregnant and confined to the bed because of preterm contractions. Apparently my ex husband was busy while I was confined to the bed... bless his heart. The doctor that found out it was herpes told me that shingles only breaks out one or two times. If you haven't had any other outbreaks, I don't understand why your doctor still has you taking medicine for it.

Do you have HCV?

Diane

[fretboard]

You shouldn't worry much about it as some patients are prescribed this drug and take it every day for the tx of herpes and other related outbreaks.  You shouldn't build an immunity to that type of drug and that's why they can prescribe acyclavir for daily dose regimens.  You are fine, time to relax.