Acyclovir Prescription Online
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Acyclovir - Summary
Acyclovir, marketed under the brand name Zovirax, is an antiviral medication that is used in the management of infections caused by herpes viruses. Push Health can connect people who might need an acyclovir prescription with a medical provider who can prescribe acyclovir medication, including acyclovir cream, acyclovir ointment, acyclovir 400 mg and acyclovir 800 mg, if appropriate to do so.
What Is Acyclovir Used For?
Acyclovir prescription medication belongs to a class of medications known as synthetic nucleoside analogues. Acyclovir medication is similar to the antiviral medications famciclovir (Famvir) and valacyclovir (Valtrex).
Genital Herpes (HSV-2). Acyclovir is one of the primary antiviral medications used for the treatment and suppression of genital herpes. It is used for both episodic treatment (i.e. when an outbreaks starts) and daily suppressive therapy (i.e. to reduce the frequency of outbreaks and the risk of transmission to partners). Both approaches reduce viral shedding.
Cold Sores (Oral Herpes / HSV-1). Acyclovir is used for the treatment of cold sores caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Starting treatment at the first sign of a tingling or burning sensation before the lesion appears is considered most effective.
Shingles (Herpes Zoster). Acyclovir is used in the acute treatment of shingles (herpes zoster). Shingles is caused by a reactivation of the varicella-zoster (chickenpox) virus and is characterized by a painful blistering rash along a specific nerve pathway. Starting antiviral treatment within 48-72 hours of rash onset helps reduce the severity and duration of the shingles episode and the risk of postherpetic neuralgia - a persistent nerve pain that can last months to years after the rash resolves.
Chickenpox (Varicella). Acyclovir is used in selected patients - particularly adults, adolescents, immunocompromised patients, and those with severe disease - with chickenpox (varicella) to reduce the duration and severity of the illness.
Acyclovir - Mechanism of Action
Acyclovir medication has been observed to have activity against herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 as well as the varicella-zoster virus. Acyclovir prescription medication is thought to work by blocking replication of herpes viral DNA through disrupting enzymes and the viral DNA itself. Acyclovir medication has a plasma elimination half life of approximately 3 hours. Viruses can become resistant to acyclovir medication and this often occurs because of changes in enzymes in the viruses. It is important to note that acyclovir does not eradicate virus completely.
Acyclovir vs. Valacyclovir - What Is the Difference?
Valacyclovir (Valtrex) is a prodrug of acyclovir, meaning that the body converts valacyclovir into acyclovir after it is absorbed. The two drugs are clinically equivalent in their antiviral activity, but they differ in oral bioavailability and dosing convenience:
Oral acyclovir has approximately 20% bioavailability which means that only about 1 in 5 of the drug molecules taken orally actually reach the bloodstream. To compensate, acyclovir must be taken more frequently (often 3-5 times daily). Valacyclovir has approximately 55% bioavailability after conversion which allows it to be dosed just 2-3 times daily.
For most patients, valacyclovir's simpler dosing schedule is preferable, particularly when it is being used for daily suppressive therapy over months to years. Acyclovir remains appropriate for patients where cost is a significant consideration.
| Acyclovir | Valacyclovir | |
|---|---|---|
| Active compound | Acyclovir | Converted to acyclovir |
| Oral bioavailability | ≈ 20% | ≈ 55% |
| Cost | < 10 cents / tablet | 15-30 cents / tablet |
A licensed provider can advise on whether acyclovir or valacyclovir is most appropriate for a specific patient's indication, dosing preference, and budget.
Acyclovir - Dosage and Cost
Acyclovir medication is available in capsule, tablet, cream and ointment forms. In tablet form, acyclovir is typically available as acyclovir 200 mg capsules, 400mg tablets and 800mg tablets. Acyclovir has a short plasma elimination half-life which is why multiple daily doses are required for most indications. The dose and treatment vary depending on the indication and the patient's health history but, frequently, the following regimens are used*:
- Genital herpes (episodic): 400 mg three times daily for 5-10 days or 800 mg twice daily for 5 days
- Genital herpes (daily suppression): 400 mg twice daily
- Shingles: 800 mg five times daily for 7-10 days (start within 72 hours of rash onset)
- Chickenpox in adults: 800 mg four times daily for 5 days
*Patients should discuss their situation with their medical provider to get the acyclovir treatment regimen that is appropriate for them.
Generic acyclovir 400 mg tablets are very affordable - typically under 10 cents per tablet at most pharmacies. A standard 5-day outbreak treatment course can cost under $5. Daily suppressive therapy costs approximately $6-$15 per month. Some insurance plans may cover some or all of the cost of acyclovir prescription medication. Acyclovir prescription savings cards may also be available online for people who want to look for additional savings. Acyclovir medication should be stored at 15° C to 25° C.
Can I Buy Acyclovir Online?
Acyclovir is a prescription medication and, as a result, acyclovir OTC (over the counter) is not available in the US. As a result, one cannot simply buy acyclovir online. Instead, one needs a prescription from a medical provider first. Push Health can connect people who need an acyclovir prescription with a licensed medical provider who can prescribe acyclovir medication, including acyclovir cream, acyclovir ointment, acyclovir 400 mg and acyclovir 800 mg, when appropriate to do so.
Frequently Asked Questions about Acyclovir
What is acyclovir used for?
Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat and suppress infections caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) and varicella-zoster virus. Common indications include genital herpes (both episodic treatment and daily suppression), oral herpes and cold sores, shingles (herpes zoster), and chickenpox in selected patients such as adults and immunocompromised individuals.
Is acyclovir the same as Valtrex?
No, but they are closely related. Valacyclovir (Valtrex) is a prodrug that is converted to acyclovir in the body. Both drugs produce the same active antiviral compound, but valacyclovir has better oral bioavailability and requires less frequent dosing. For most patients, valacyclovir's simpler dosing schedule is preferred although acyclovir remains appropriate when cost is a priority or the dosing frequency is manageable.
How long does acyclovir take to work?
Acyclovir begins working within hours of the first dose by inhibiting viral replication. For genital herpes outbreaks, starting treatment at the first sign of symptoms and before lesions fully develop produces the best results. Symptom improvement is typically noticed within 2–3 days of starting treatment with most lesions healing within 5–10 days. For shingles, starting acyclovir within 72 hours of rash onset is important for reducing the severity and the risk of long-term nerve pain (postherpetic neuralgia).
Can acyclovir prevent herpes outbreaks?
Yes. When taken daily as a suppressive therapy, acyclovir significantly reduces the frequency of genital herpes outbreaks and the risk of transmitting the virus to partners. Daily suppressive therapy with acyclovir is an effective option for patients with frequent outbreaks or for those who want to reduce transmission risk in a relationship with an uninfected partner.
Is acyclovir a controlled substance?
No. Acyclovir is not a DEA-scheduled controlled substance. However, it does require a prescription from a licensed medical provider and can be prescribed through telehealth when clinically appropriate.
What is the difference between acyclovir cream and acyclovir ointment?
Acyclovir cream is sometimes used for cold sores on the lips and face. Acyclovir ointment is sometimes used for genital herpes lesions and mucocutaneous herpes infections. Topical acyclovir is generally less effective than oral acyclovir for most indications as it works locally. Oral treatment is preferred for genital herpes outbreaks and systemic viral infections.
How much does acyclovir cost?
Generic acyclovir is one of the most affordable antivirals available. Acyclovir 400 mg tablets typically cost under 10 cents per tablet at most pharmacies. A standard 5-day episodic outbreak treatment course typically costs under $5. Daily suppressive therapy typically costs $6–$15 per month. Prescription savings cards can help reduce costs further.
Acyclovir - Side Effects
Acyclovir prescription medication can cause side effects when used. Side effects related to acyclovir use include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, myalgia and headache. Acyclovir medication can cause hypersensitivity reactions and anyone who has had a previous hypersensitivity or allergy to acyclovir should not use the medication. Dose adjustments sometimes need to be made for people with abnormal kidney function. Acyclovir and alcohol should not be used together. Concerns about side effects related to acyclovir use should be directed to a pharmacist and medical provider before use of acyclovir prescription medication.
How to Get an Acyclovir Prescription with Push Health
- Complete a brief health intake. Answer a few questions about your symptoms, medical history, and the type of herpes infection for which you wish to be treated.
- Connect with a licensed medical provider. A provider will review your information and evaluate whether acyclovir is appropriate for your situation. Same-day consultations are available.
- Receive your prescription electronically. If acyclovir is appropriate, your provider will send a prescription to a pharmacy of your choice.
- Pick up your medication. Generic acyclovir is available at most retail pharmacies same day and typically costs under $15 for a full course of the medication.
No health insurance or subscription is required. Medical providers are available now.
More Acyclovir Information
Last updated August 8, 2026. Given the evolving nature of medicine and science, this information might not be accurate and should not be construed as medical advice or diagnosis / treatment recommendations. Please consult a licensed medical provider if you have additional questions. Please call 911 immediately or go to the nearest emergency room if you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency.