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Questions and Answers
In clients with renal impairment, how should the dosage of acyclovir be adjusted?
In clients with renal impairment, how should the dosage of acyclovir be adjusted?
What should clients be advised to do during the administration of acyclovir to prevent kidney injury?
What should clients be advised to do during the administration of acyclovir to prevent kidney injury?
Which of the following is true regarding the administration of intravenous acyclovir?
Which of the following is true regarding the administration of intravenous acyclovir?
What is an important aspect of client education regarding the use of acyclovir for genital herpes?
What is an important aspect of client education regarding the use of acyclovir for genital herpes?
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What laboratory parameters should be monitored to assess for nephrotoxicity in clients taking acyclovir?
What laboratory parameters should be monitored to assess for nephrotoxicity in clients taking acyclovir?
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What is the primary function of acyclovir?
What is the primary function of acyclovir?
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Which enzyme is primarily involved in the activation of acyclovir?
Which enzyme is primarily involved in the activation of acyclovir?
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What is a unique feature of acyclovir compared to other drugs?
What is a unique feature of acyclovir compared to other drugs?
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For what condition is acyclovir NOT the first-choice treatment?
For what condition is acyclovir NOT the first-choice treatment?
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What can cause nephrotoxicity when administering acyclovir?
What can cause nephrotoxicity when administering acyclovir?
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Which of the following side effects is NOT commonly associated with acyclovir?
Which of the following side effects is NOT commonly associated with acyclovir?
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In what scenario is acyclovir potentially used for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections?
In what scenario is acyclovir potentially used for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections?
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Which of the following best describes the effect of acyclovir on viral DNA synthesis?
Which of the following best describes the effect of acyclovir on viral DNA synthesis?
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What precaution should be taken when administering acyclovir to clients with renal impairment?
What precaution should be taken when administering acyclovir to clients with renal impairment?
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Why is it important to ensure adequate hydration during acyclovir administration?
Why is it important to ensure adequate hydration during acyclovir administration?
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Which of the following is a recommended practice for applying topical acyclovir?
Which of the following is a recommended practice for applying topical acyclovir?
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What should clients be educated about regarding the effects of acyclovir on herpes viruses?
What should clients be educated about regarding the effects of acyclovir on herpes viruses?
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When monitoring for nephrotoxicity in clients taking acyclovir, which laboratory levels should be assessed?
When monitoring for nephrotoxicity in clients taking acyclovir, which laboratory levels should be assessed?
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Which viral family infections is acyclovir primarily used to treat?
Which viral family infections is acyclovir primarily used to treat?
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What is the mechanism by which acyclovir inhibits viral DNA synthesis?
What is the mechanism by which acyclovir inhibits viral DNA synthesis?
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Which side effect is most commonly associated with intravenous administration of acyclovir?
Which side effect is most commonly associated with intravenous administration of acyclovir?
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How does acyclovir minimize effects on human cells?
How does acyclovir minimize effects on human cells?
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When is acyclovir most effective for treating varicella zoster virus infections?
When is acyclovir most effective for treating varicella zoster virus infections?
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What is a potential CNS side effect of acyclovir?
What is a potential CNS side effect of acyclovir?
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In what circumstance might acyclovir have limited use for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections?
In what circumstance might acyclovir have limited use for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections?
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What is a common gastrointestinal side effect of acyclovir?
What is a common gastrointestinal side effect of acyclovir?
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What is an important precaution to consider when administering acyclovir?
What is an important precaution to consider when administering acyclovir?
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Why is it necessary to monitor serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels in clients taking acyclovir?
Why is it necessary to monitor serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels in clients taking acyclovir?
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What is key information to provide to clients regarding the use of topical acyclovir?
What is key information to provide to clients regarding the use of topical acyclovir?
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What is the recommended method for administering intravenous acyclovir?
What is the recommended method for administering intravenous acyclovir?
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What should clients be informed about regarding the effectiveness of acyclovir?
What should clients be informed about regarding the effectiveness of acyclovir?
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What is the primary action of acyclovir's active form, acyclo−guanosine triphosphate (GTP)?
What is the primary action of acyclovir's active form, acyclo−guanosine triphosphate (GTP)?
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Which of the following conditions is acyclovir most effective when treatment begins within 24 hours of onset?
Which of the following conditions is acyclovir most effective when treatment begins within 24 hours of onset?
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What is a potential side effect of intravenous administration of acyclovir?
What is a potential side effect of intravenous administration of acyclovir?
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Which enzyme is crucial for the initial activation of acyclovir in the body?
Which enzyme is crucial for the initial activation of acyclovir in the body?
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Why is acyclovir considered to have a selective toxicity towards viral infections?
Why is acyclovir considered to have a selective toxicity towards viral infections?
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Which of the following populations should receive high doses of oral acyclovir for shingles treatment?
Which of the following populations should receive high doses of oral acyclovir for shingles treatment?
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What gastrointestinal side effects may patients experience while taking acyclovir?
What gastrointestinal side effects may patients experience while taking acyclovir?
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Under what circumstance might acyclovir be used for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections?
Under what circumstance might acyclovir be used for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections?
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Which of the following is a recommended practice for clients applying topical acyclovir?
Which of the following is a recommended practice for clients applying topical acyclovir?
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What is a significant precaution when considering the use of acyclovir in clients?
What is a significant precaution when considering the use of acyclovir in clients?
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Why is it important for clients to maintain adequate hydration during acyclovir treatment?
Why is it important for clients to maintain adequate hydration during acyclovir treatment?
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What should clients be informed about regarding the effectiveness of acyclovir against herpes viruses?
What should clients be informed about regarding the effectiveness of acyclovir against herpes viruses?
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Which laboratory parameters should be monitored closely in clients taking acyclovir?
Which laboratory parameters should be monitored closely in clients taking acyclovir?
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What is the primary function of acyclovir?
What is the primary function of acyclovir?
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Which virus is acyclovir primarily used to treat?
Which virus is acyclovir primarily used to treat?
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What mechanism does acyclovir use to inhibit viral replication?
What mechanism does acyclovir use to inhibit viral replication?
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During the administration of acyclovir, which side effect may commonly occur?
During the administration of acyclovir, which side effect may commonly occur?
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When is acyclovir most effective for treating varicella zoster virus infections?
When is acyclovir most effective for treating varicella zoster virus infections?
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What type of reactions may occur at the site of intravenous administration of acyclovir?
What type of reactions may occur at the site of intravenous administration of acyclovir?
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In cases of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections, acyclovir has limited efficacy primarily because:
In cases of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections, acyclovir has limited efficacy primarily because:
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Which of the following is NOT a CNS side effect associated with acyclovir use?
Which of the following is NOT a CNS side effect associated with acyclovir use?
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Study Notes
Acyclovir Overview
- Acyclovir is an antiviral drug used to treat infections caused by the herpesvirus family including herpes simplex viruses (HSV), varicella-zoster virus (VZV), and, to a lesser extent, cytomegalovirus (CMV).
- Acyclovir specifically inhibits viral DNA synthesis.
Mechanism of Action
- Acyclovir is activated to acyclo-guanosine monophosphate (GMP) by the thymidine kinase enzyme.
- GMP is further converted to acyclo-guanosine triphosphate (GTP).
- GTP then inhibits viral DNA polymerase and integrates into viral DNA, halting further DNA chain growth.
Indications and Therapeutic Uses
- First-line treatment for primary and recurrent mucocutaneous herpes simplex infections, such as oral and genital herpes.
- Reduces the duration and severity of herpes outbreaks.
- High doses of oral acyclovir are effective for varicella (chickenpox) and herpes zoster (shingles), especially when started within 24 hours of rash onset.
- Limited use in certain CMV infections, primarily when other potent drugs like ganciclovir are contraindicated.
Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
- Infusion Site Reactions: IV therapy can cause phlebitis and inflammation at the IV insertion site.
- Nephrotoxicity: Potential kidney injury due to drug deposition in the renal tubules. Adequate hydration and slow IV infusion can mitigate this risk.
- CNS Side Effects: Agitation, tremors, delirium, hallucinations, myoclonus, headache, and vertigo.
- GI Upset: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common side effects.
Precautions
- Exercise caution in individuals with renal impairment and adjust dosage accordingly.
Drug Interactions
- Use caution when administering acyclovir concurrently with other nephrotoxic drugs due to the risk of renal injury.
Dosing, Administration & Client Teaching
- Dosing varies based on the condition, severity, and client response.
- Administration routes include topical, oral, and intravenous, with dosing guidelines tailored to the specific condition and renal function.
- Ensure adequate hydration during administration to prevent kidney injury.
- Reduce dosage for clients with impaired kidney function.
- Administer IV acyclovir slowly (over one hour).
- Advise clients to maintain adequate hydration and monitor for signs of renal injury.
- Teach clients to apply topical forms with a finger cot or glove to prevent spreading the virus.
- Promote good hygiene practices around infected areas to support healing and reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
- Inform clients that acyclovir does not cure herpes viruses.
- Educate clients with genital herpes about the importance of safe sex practices, including avoiding sexual contact during outbreaks and using condoms consistently.
Labs to Monitor
- Monitor serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels to assess for nephrotoxicity.
Acyclovir
- Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by the herpes virus family.
- It specifically targets viral DNA synthesis, minimizing effects on human cells.
- Acyclovir is the treatment of choice for herpes simplex virus infections, including oral and genital herpes.
- It is also effective for varicella (chickenpox) and herpes zoster (shingles) and can be used in certain CMV infections.
- Acyclovir works by inhibiting viral DNA synthesis by undergoing activation to acyclo-guanosine monophosphate (GMP).
- GMP is converted to acyclo-guanosine triphosphate (GTP), which then inhibits viral DNA polymerase and gets incorporated into viral DNA, blocking further DNA chain growth.
- Side effects include infusion site reactions, nephrotoxicity, CNS side effects, and GI upset.
- Acyclovir is administered topically, orally, and intravenously.
- Ensure adequate hydration during administration to prevent kidney injury.
- Dosage adjustments are required for clients with renal impairment.
- Use caution when administering acyclovir with other nephrotoxic drugs due to potential renal injury.
- Client education should include the importance of adequate hydration, monitoring for symptoms of renal injury, and good hygiene practices.
- Acyclovir does not cure herpes viruses; it only reduces the severity of outbreaks and duration of symptoms.
- It's crucial to inform clients with genital herpes about safe sexual practices and condom use.
- Monitor serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels in clients taking acyclovir to assess for nephrotoxicity.
Acyclovir (Zovirax)
- Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by the herpesvirus family, including herpes simplex viruses (HSV), varicella-zoster virus (VZV), and cytomegalovirus (CMV).
- Acyclovir specifically targets viral DNA synthesis, minimizing effects on human cells.
- Acyclovir inhibits viral DNA synthesis by undergoing activation to acyclo-guanosine monophosphate (GMP) via the thymidine kinase enzyme.
- GMP is then converted to acyclo-guanosine triphosphate (GTP) which inhibits viral DNA polymerase and gets incorporated into viral DNA, blocking further DNA chain growth.
- Acyclovir is the treatment of choice for primary and recurrent mucocutaneous herpes simplex infections, including oral and genital herpes.
- High doses of oral acyclovir are effective for varicella (chickenpox) and herpes zoster (shingles), especially when treatment is initiated within 24 hours of rash onset.
- Acyclovir may have limited use in certain CMV infections, especially when more potent drugs like ganciclovir are contraindicated.
- Acyclovir can cause infusion site reactions, nephrotoxicity (kidney injury), and CNS side effects such as agitation, tremors, delirium, hallucinations, myoclonus, headache, and vertigo.
- Gastrointestinal upset is common including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Use caution in clients with renal impairment and adjust dosage accordingly.
- Due to acyclovir's potential for nephrotoxicity, use caution with simultaneous administration of other nephrotoxic drugs.
- Dosing varies based on the condition, severity, and client response.
- Acyclovir is administered topically, orally, and intravenously.
- Administer IV acyclovir slowly (over one hour).
- Ensure adequate hydration during administration to prevent kidney injury.
- Reduce dosage for clients with impaired kidney function.
- Advise clients to ensure adequate hydration and monitor for symptoms of renal injury.
- Teach clients to apply topical forms with a finger cot or glove to prevent spreading the virus.
- Clients should maintain good hygiene practices around the infected areas to support healing and reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
- Acyclovir does not cure herpes viruses.
- Educate clients with genital herpes about the importance of avoiding sexual contact during outbreaks and to always use condoms to reduce the risk of transmission.
- Monitor serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels to assess for nephrotoxicity.
Acyclovir: Antiviral Agent
- Acyclovir is used to treat infections caused by the herpesvirus family, including herpes simplex viruses (HSV), varicella-zoster virus (VZV), and, to a lesser extent, cytomegalovirus (CMV).
- Acyclovir targets viral DNA synthesis, directly inhibiting the virus's ability to replicate.
- Acyclovir is converted to acyclo-guanosine triphosphate (GTP), which then inhibits viral DNA polymerase and gets incorporated into viral DNA, blocking further DNA chain growth.
Therapeutic Uses of Acyclovir
- Treatment of choice for primary and recurrent mucocutaneous herpes simplex infections: This includes oral and genital herpes.
- Effective for varicella (chickenpox) and herpes zoster (shingles): Particularly when treatment is initiated within 24 hours of rash onset, reducing pain and accelerating healing.
- Limited use for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections: Acyclovir is not as effective as ganciclovir for CMV, and its use is reserved for situations where ganciclovir is contraindicated.
Side Effects of Acyclovir
- Infusion site reactions: IV therapy can cause phlebitis and inflammation at the IV insertion site.
- Nephrotoxicity: Kidney injury can occur due to deposition of the drug into the renal tubules. Adequate hydration and slow IV infusion can minimize this risk.
- Central Nervous System (CNS) side effects: Agitation, tremors, delirium, hallucinations, myoclonus, headache, and vertigo.
- Gastrointestinal (GI) upset: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common.
Precautions with Acyclovir
- Use caution in clients with renal impairment and adjust dosage accordingly.
- Due to the potential for nephrotoxicity, use caution when administering acyclovir with other nephrotoxic drugs.
Dosing and Administration
- Dosing varies based on the condition, severity, and client response. Check drug dosing guidelines for individualized dosing.
- Administered topically, orally, and intravenously. Dosing guidelines vary based on the condition being treated and the client's renal function.
- Ensure adequate hydration during administration to prevent kidney injury.
- Reduce dosage for clients with impaired kidney function.
- IV acyclovir should be administered slowly (over one hour) to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
Client Teaching
- Advise clients to ensure adequate hydration and monitor for symptoms of renal injury.
- Teach clients to apply topical forms with a finger cot or glove to prevent spreading the virus to other parts of the body or to other people.
- Teach clients to maintain good hygiene practices around the infected areas to support healing and reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
- Inform clients that acyclovir does not cure herpes viruses.
- Clients with genital herpes should be educated about the importance of avoiding sexual contact during outbreaks and to always use condoms to reduce the risk of transmission.
Labs to Monitor
- Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP): Monitor serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels to assess for nephrotoxicity.
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Description
This quiz explores the antiviral drug Acyclovir, focusing on its mechanism of action and therapeutic uses. Learn about its efficacy against herpes simplex viruses and other related infections. Test your knowledge on its activation and role in inhibiting viral DNA synthesis.
