Aiclovir eye ointment

What is Aciclovir eye ointment?

Aciclovir eye ointment is used to treat corneal inflammation of the eye (keratitis) caused by the pathogen herpes simplex. The active substance contained in the ointment inhibits the multiplication of the virus and thus enables healing. Herpes infections can occur in different parts of the body and are usually easy to treat. In the worst case, a herpes infection of the eye without treatment can lead to a loss of vision or the inflammation spreading to the brain.

Is Aciclovir available over the counter?

Aciclovir is not available over the counter. The drug should only be used if a medical indication has been established by a doctor. Therefore, it is only available on prescription from a pharmacy after a doctor’s prescription.

When should I use Aciclovir eye ointment?

The indications for Aciclovir eye ointment are diseases of the eye caused by an infection with the virus Herpes simplex. The most common cause is inflammation of the cornea, which is located in front of the pupil and has an important function for sharp vision. An inflammation of the cornea can become noticeable by pain and itching of the eye. For given indications, treatment with Aciclovir eye ointment is important, as it can occur without serious complications. and

How does Aciclovir work?

Aciclovir Eye Ointment contains the eponymous active ingredient Aciclovir. This is a so-called anti-viral drug. It fights the pathogen Herpes simplex.

This is a virus that attacks cells, multiplies in them and ultimately destroys them. The newly created virus particles attack new cells again, so that the inflammation spreads further. If the eye is infected, this can even lead to destruction of the cornea, which in the worst case can result in blindness of the eye. The active ingredient acyclovir acts on the multiplication cycle of herpes simplex and inhibits it. The restriction of the reproduction of the virus by the virustatic agent enables the body’s own defence system to break down infected cells and thus contain and overcome the inflammation.

Side effects of Aciclovir

As with any medication, the use of Aciclovir eye ointment may also cause side effects. The most common side effect is a slight burning sensation shortly after application of the ointment, which usually subsides within a few seconds to minutes. In isolated cases, a superficial inflammatory reaction of the conjunctiva adjacent to the cornea may also occur.

In addition, the occurrence of superficial punctiform corneal defects is possible, which is called Kereatitis superficialis punctata. As a rule, these side effects and consequential damages heal, so that no premature discontinuation of treatment with Aciclovir eye ointment is necessary. In general, the doctor who prescribed the ointment should be consulted if side effects of any kind are noticed. An independent discontinuation of the medication without consulting the doctor is not recommended.