Sign Out
Symptoms & signs: Overdosage of intravenous aciclovir has resulted in elevations of serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen and subsequent renal failure. Neurological effects including confusion, hallucinations, agitation, seizures and coma have been described in association with intravenous overdosage.
Dispersible tab/Oral susp: Aciclovir is only partly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Patients have ingested overdoses of up to 20 g aciclovir on a single occasion, usually without toxic effects.
Accidental, repeated overdoses of oral aciclovir over several days have been associated with gastrointestinal effects (such as nausea and vomiting) and neurological effects (headache and confusion).
Treatment: Patients should be observed closely for signs of toxicity. Haemodialysis significantly enhances the removal of aciclovir from the blood and may therefore be considered a management option in the event of symptomatic overdose.
