Acivir Dosage: What You Need to Know

If you’ve been prescribed Acivir, the first thing you want to be sure of is the right amount to take. Getting the dose right can keep the drug working well and reduce side effects.

Standard dosing and common schedules

For most adults, the usual starting dose of Acivir is 500 mg taken once a day with food. Doctors often keep you on that dose for the first two weeks to see how you tolerate it. If the infection isn’t clearing up, they may increase the dose to 1000 mg per day, split into two 500 mg tablets taken morning and evening.

Kidney or liver problems change the game. If you have moderate kidney impairment, the recommendation is to cut the daily dose in half – 250 mg once daily. Severe liver disease usually means you should avoid Acivir altogether unless a specialist tells you otherwise.

Special situations: kids, seniors, and missed doses

Children under 12 years aren’t usually given Acivir because safety data are limited. If a pediatric doctor decides it’s needed, the dose is calculated by weight – about 10 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, divided into two doses.

People over 65 often need a lower dose because the body clears the drug slower. A common approach is to start at 250 mg daily and only increase if the infection persists.

If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember – but only if it’s more than six hours before your next scheduled dose. Skipping the missed pill and continuing with your regular schedule is safer than taking a double dose.

Store Acivir in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. The tablets stay stable for up to two years if stored properly.

Watch out for side effects. The most common ones are mild stomach upset, headache, and a slight rash. If you develop severe itching, swelling, or trouble breathing, call a doctor right away – these could be signs of an allergic reaction.

When taking Acivir, avoid alcohol or any other medication that can stress the liver, unless your doctor says it’s okay. Also, tell your pharmacist about any over‑the‑counter supplements you use, especially herbal products, because they sometimes interact with Acivir.

Finally, always follow up with your healthcare provider after a week of treatment. They’ll check if the infection is improving and decide whether you need to stay on the same dose, increase it, or stop the medication.

By sticking to the right dose, adjusting for any health issues, and watching for side effects, you give Acivir the best chance to work while keeping yourself safe.