Acyclovir
Acyclovir is given in Herpes Simplex, Herpes Zoster and Chickenpox. It does not cure the disease but decreases the duration of illness, prevents the generation of new vesicles and reduces pain and itching. When given, it reduces post Herpetic neuralgia pain.
Doses
Herpes Zoster :Tablet Acyclovir 800 mg orally, 4 hourly for 7-10 days can be given in. The treatment should be initiated as soon as possible after establishing the diagnosis.
In immunocompromised patients, the dose should be 10 mg. per kilogram body weight, intravenously, three times a day for 7 days.
Famcyclovir
It is most effective when administered within 48 hours of blister appearance.
Doses
Herpes Zoster: 500 mg orally 8 hourly for 7 days.
Valacyclovir
Doses
Herpes Zoster: 1 gram orally, 3 times a day for 7 days.