Acivir® Eye Oinment is an antiviral eye preparation. It is used for the treatment of viral infections of the eye caused by herpes simplex viruses. Acivir® Eye Oinment works by interfering with the growth of certain viruses that affect the eye (particularly herpes simplex viruses).
Active Ingredient
Description
Acivir® Eye Oinment is an antiviral agent which is highly active in vitro against herpes simplex (HSV) types I and II, but its toxicity to mammalian cells is low.
Acivir® Eye Oinment is phosphorylated to the active compound acyclovir triphosphate after entry into herpes infected cell. The first step in this process requires the presence of the HSV coded thymidine kinase. Acyclovir triphosphate acts as an inhibitor of, and substrate for, herpes specified DNA polymerase, preventing further viral DNA synthesis without affecting normal cellular processes.
Acivir® Eye Oinment is rapidly absorbed from the ophthalmic ointment through the corneal epithelium and superficial ocular tissues, achieving antiviral concentrations in the aqueous humor.
It has not been possible by existing methods to detect acyclovir in the blood after topical application to the eye. However, trace quantities are detectable in the urine. These levels are not therapeutically significant.
Generic name of Acivir® Eye Oinment is Acyclovir.
Dosage
It is important to use Acivir® Eye Oinment five times a day and to continue using it for at least three days after your eye feels better.
If you normally wear contact lenses, use spectacles instead whilst Acivir® Eye Oinment. If the eye(s) have an obvious discharge or 'crust' they may be bathed with boiled and cooled water before treating with Acivir.
How to use Acivir® Eye Oinment:
1. Wash your hands before use
2. Remove the outer cap
3. Tilt the head back and pull the lower lid of the eye down to form a pocket
4. Hold the container between the thumb and middle finger of the other hand; turn the container upside down near to the eye, trying not to touch the eye
5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release a thin line of ointment along the inside of the lower eye lid
6. Blink to spread the ointment around the inside of the eye
7. Repeat in the other eye if you have been instructed to use Acivir in both eyes
8. Replace the outer cap on the container, trying not to touch the applicator tip with the fingers as you do so
9. Wash your hands
Use Acivir® Eye Oinment exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
Missing a dose
Do not take double dose. If you miss a dose you should take it as soon as you remember about your missing. If it is the time for the next dose you should continue your regular dosing schedule.
Overdose
If you overdose Acivir® Eye Oinment and you don't feel good you should visit your doctor or health care provider immediately.
Storage
Store at a room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F) away from moisture and heat. Throw away the after the expiration date. Keep out of the reach of children.
