What is the brand name for Acyclovir?
The brand name for Acyclovir is Zovirax.
PTCE Top 200 · #150
Acyclovir
Zovirax
Acyclovir is the generic name for the brand-name drug Zovirax. It is an antiviral (herpes) used to treat herpes (HSV, VZV). On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Acyclovir ranks #150 and is one of the most frequently tested infectious disease medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Acyclovir |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Zovirax |
| Drug class | Antiviral (herpes) |
| Class group | Infectious Disease |
| Common use | herpes (HSV, VZV) |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Acyclovir used for?
Treatment of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections (e.g., genital herpes) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infections (e.g., shingles/chickenpox).
What drug class is Acyclovir?
Acyclovir is an Antiviral (herpes) in the Infectious Disease group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Acyclovir
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightDiarrhea
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightRash
- arrow_rightFatigue
Major interactions
- arrow_rightOther nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., cyclosporine, tacrolimus) → increased renal risk
- arrow_rightProbenecid/cimetidine may increase acyclovir levels
- arrow_rightEnsure adequate hydration to reduce kidney toxicity risk (high doses/IV)
Is Acyclovir a controlled substance?
No. Acyclovir is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Acyclovir (PTCE mnemonic)
ZO-virax ZAPs viruses — ACYclovir blocks viral DNA polymerase (HSV/VZV). Start at first sign; HYDRATE → crystalluria/AKI; renal dose-adjust; less bioavailable than valacyclovir.
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PTCE exam tip
Acyclovir treats — never cures — herpes outbreaks; its prodrug valacyclovir (Valtrex) doses less often, a favorite same-family comparison. Counsel hydration (kidney crystals).
Acyclovir FAQ
What is Acyclovir used for?
Acyclovir is used to treat herpes (HSV, VZV). Treatment of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections (e.g., genital herpes) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infections (e.g., shingles/chickenpox).
What drug class is Acyclovir?
Acyclovir is an Antiviral (herpes) (Infectious Disease group).
Is Acyclovir a controlled substance?
No. Acyclovir is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Infectious Disease group
Drill Acyclovir the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).