Drug Name

Acivir Eye Ointment 3% w/w

Drug Uses

Acivir Eye Ointment is an antiviral eye preparation. It is used for the treatment of viral infections of the eye caused by herpes simplex viruses

How to use

Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.

It is important to use this eye ointment five times a day and to continue using it for at least three days after your eye feels better.

If you normally wear contact lenses, use spectacles instead whilst Acivir Eye Ointment.

If the eye(s) have an obvious discharge or 'crust' they may be bathed with boiled and cooled water before treating with Acivir.
1. Wash your hands well before use
2. Remove the outer cap
3. Tilt the head back and pull the lower lid of the eye down to form a pocket
4. Hold the container between the thumb and middle finger of the other hand; turn the container upside down near to the eye, trying not to touch the eye
5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release a thin line of ointment along the inside of the lower eye lid
6. Blink to spread the ointment around the inside of the eye
7. Repeat in the other eye if you have been instructed to use Acivir in both eyes
8. Replace the outer cap on the container, trying not to touch the applicator tip with the fingers as you do so
9. Wash your hands

Drug Class and Mechanism

Acivir Eye Ointment works by interfering with the growth of certain viruses that affect the eye (particularly herpes simplex viruses)

Missed Dose

Try not to miss doses. If you do miss a dose, then apply the missed dose as soon as possible.

Storage

Keep out of reach of children.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
Do not use this preparation more than four weeks after opening.
Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

Warnings/Precautions

• Use Acivir Eye Ointment exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
• It should be applied five times a day.
• Do not wear soft contact lenses while you are being treated Acivir Eye Ointment.
• If you are using any other eye drops or eye ointments, leave at least five minutes between applying each preparation.
• It is important to continue using Acivir for 3 days after the eye has completely healed to ensure that all of the viruses have been killed.
• Do not use Acivir Eye Ointment more often or for a longer period than your doctor had directed.
• If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they become worse, check with your doctor.
• Strict attention to hygiene and cleanliness is important to prevent the infection spreading.
• Be careful to use separate towels to other members of your household.
• If only the one eye is infected, care must be taken to avoid spreading the infection from one eye to the other.
• Eye infections can cause the eyes to become more sensitive to sunlight. Wearing dark glasses may help prevent this.
• Acivir Eye Ointment is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• Acivir Eye Ointment is for external use only. If you suspect someone has swallowed any Acivir, contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Where possible take the container with you, even if empty.

Possible Side Effects

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

The common side-effects are:

• stinging (this can happen after applying the ointment, it will pass quickly)
• blurred vision (make sure you can see clearly before you drive, operate machinery or do any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were unable to see properly)
• increased sensitivity to light (wearing sunglasses to reduce glare can help)

In addition, your eye may feel puffy and irritated as if there is something in it.
If the irritation is severe, your condition worsens, or if you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this preparation ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

More Information

If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.