Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.
 
This is acyclovir. You should take it as directed by your doctor. 

Acyclovir treats infections caused by herpes viruses, like chicken pox, shingles and genital herpes. This medicine is not a cure, but it should help lessen the current infection. Your doctor will probably ask you to start this medicine as soon as the infection appears. That's because it works best when started early. 

Sometimes, doctors will prescribe acyclovir to help prevent outbreaks of genital herpes. It's important to know this medicine does not protect others from becoming infected. So, ask your doctor or pharmacist how you can prevent spreading it. 

This medicine is usually tolerated well, but some side effects can occur. You could feel nauseous or tired. You could also have diarrhea or a headache. These are normal if they are mild and should go away.  If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. 

As with any medicine, rare but more serious side effects can occur. You should call your doctor right away if you notice any unusual changes to your body, like a rash, confusion or irritability. 

You can help reduce side effects if you drink plenty of water while taking this medicine. 

Also, women should talk to their doctor first before becoming pregnant or breastfeeding while taking this medicine. 

For best results, take acyclovir as directed, and finish the full course of treatment.