Virunil
Form: Cream
Strength: 5%
Generic Name: Acyclovir (Topical)
Company: Globe Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
MRP:৳ 70.0 (5gm tube)
Is Antibiotic: No
Indications
Acyclovir cream is used for treating recurrent cold sores (herpes labialis) in immunocompetent adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older.
Pharmacology
Acyclovir is an antiviral drug that targets herpes simplex viruses (HSV-1 and HSV-2). Virunil works by inhibiting viral DNA replication through selective binding to the viral enzyme thymidine kinase (TK). Acyclovir triphosphate blocks viral DNA synthesis through three mechanisms: competitive inhibition of viral DNA polymerase, termination of the viral DNA chain, and inactivation of the viral DNA polymerase.
Dosage & Administration
Apply Acyclovir cream five times daily for four days. Start treatment as early as possible when signs or symptoms of cold sores first appear. Adolescents aged 12 years and older follow the same dosage as adults.
Interaction
No significant drug interactions have been observed with Acyclovir cream. Due to minimal absorption, systemic drug interactions are unlikely.
Contraindications
Acyclovir cream should not be used by patients allergic to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any component of the formulation.
Side Effects
Common side effects include dry or cracked lips, skin dryness, burning, itching, or flakiness at the application site. These reactions are rare, occurring in less than 1% of patients.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Virunil is unclear whether topically applied Acyclovir is excreted in breast milk, but systemic exposure is minimal.
Precautions & Warnings
Apply only to the external lips and face. Avoid application to mucous membranes, eyes, or inside the mouth or nose. Acyclovir cream is for skin use only and may cause irritation upon contact. Its safety in immunocompromised patients is not established.
Overdose Effects
No harmful effects are expected from overdose due to minimal systemic absorption.
Therapeutic Class
Topical antiviral preparations.
Storage Conditions
Store at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C.
Similar Brands of Acyclovir (Topical) (Cream – 5%)
| Brand Name | Form | Strength | Company | MRP (৳) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acerux | Cream | 5% | Opsonin Pharma Limited | 70.0 |
| Acirux | Cream | 5% | Albion Laboratories Ltd. | 0.0 |
| Novirax | Cream | 5% | Drug International Ltd. | 40.15 |
| Viroxi | Cream | 5% | Eskayef Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 40.15 |
| Virux Cream | Cream | 5% | Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 70.0 |