Description:

Aciclovir Eye Ointment (commonly 3% w/w, sterile, 5g tube) is a topical antiviral medication used to treat acute herpetic keratitis (dendritic ulcers) caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 or HSV-2) in the eye. It inhibits viral DNA replication, reducing the severity and duration of corneal ulcers, pain, redness, tearing, light sensitivity, and vision blurring associated with ocular herpes infections. The 3% strength is the standard concentration for ophthalmic use (often labeled as 3% or 30 mg/g; some markets refer to it as “5g sterile” tube size, not 5% concentration). It is a key treatment for herpes simplex keratitis to prevent complications like corneal scarring or vision loss.

Prescription:

Prescription-only.

Therapeutic Category:

Topical Antiviral Ophthalmic Agent (Nucleoside analogue antiviral for herpes simplex keratitis.

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Active ingredient: Aciclovir (acyclovir) 3% w/w (30 mg per gram of ointment; total ~150 mg aciclovir in 5g tube). Other ingredients (excipients, typical USP/BP formulation): White soft paraffin/petrolatum base (for ointment consistency), preservatives (e.g., chlorocresol or parabens in some), and stabilizers. The ointment is sterile, white to off-white, smooth, and non-irritating to the eye.

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant:

• Aciclovir Eye Ointment 3% sterile, 5g tube (standard ophthalmic preparation; common in Ghana generics like Imavir, Virovir, Acivir, Acyvir). Related variants: Higher/lower concentrations (rare), or combination products (e.g., with steroids for inflammation, but plain aciclovir is preferred for pure viral keratitis). Tube size is typically 5g (sufficient for one treatment course).

Consume Type:

Topical – Ophthalmic ointment (applied to the lower conjunctival sac of the affected eye; not for oral or other use).

Directions/Usage:

Apply a 1 cm (approximately 1/2 inch) ribbon of ointment into the lower conjunctival sac of the affected eye(s) 5 times daily (about every 3–4 hours while awake) until the eye heals (usually 7–14 days).

• Then continue with 1 cm ribbon 3 times daily for an additional 7 days (or as prescribed).
• Tilt head back, pull lower eyelid down, apply ribbon without touching eye/tube tip (to avoid contamination).
• Close eye gently for 1–2 minutes; blink to spread ointment.
• Wash hands before/after use.
• Continue full course even if symptoms improve; do not stop early.
• For prevention in neonates (if maternal genital herpes): Single application post-birth.

Common Side Effects: Common (mild/transient):

• Eye pain or stinging on application.
• Temporary blurred vision or irritation.
• Redness, itching, swelling, or other minor eye discomfort. Rare: Allergic reactions (severe irritation, rash around eye), or worsening infection (seek immediate help).

Package Type:

Aluminium collapsible tube of 5g sterile ointment (screw cap; often in individual carton/box with patient information leaflet and instructions).

Storage Advice:

Store at room temperature (below 25–30°C) in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep tightly closed. Do not freeze. Discard if discolored or after expiry (typically 2–3 years unopened; check label). Out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• For external ophthalmic use only; avoid touching tube tip to eye/lid to prevent contamination/infection.
• Contraindicated if allergic to aciclovir or excipients.
• Caution in pregnancy/breastfeeding (generally safe topically but consult doctor), children (use under guidance), or if contact lenses worn (remove before application; wait 15 min before reinserting).
• If severe pain, vision changes, increased redness/discharge, or no improvement after 7–10 days, stop use and seek urgent ophthalmology care (possible resistant infection or complications).
• Do not use for other eye conditions without diagnosis.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Product Substitutes: Similar aciclovir 3% eye ointment (5g tube) available in Ghana include:

• Imavir Acyclovir Eye Ointment 5g (common at Alsultan Pharmacy).
• Virovir Aciclovir Eye Ointment 5g.
• Acivir Eye Ointment 5g (Cipla generics).
• Acyvir Eye Ointment. Alternatives: Ganciclovir ophthalmic gel (Vitrasert or generics for CMV retinitis), trifluridine drops (for resistant HSV), or oral aciclovir/valaciclovir for systemic support (consult ophthalmologist). Widely stocked at pharmacies like Scab Pharmacy, Country Medical Pharmacy.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Varies by brand (e.g., Aristopharma Ltd. for some generics, Cipla for Acivir, or other Indian exporters like Supra Pharma, Shivalik). Marketed/distributed in Ghana by local importers/pharmacies (e.g., Scab Pharmacy, Alsultan Pharmacy, Garnet Pharmacy for similar products).

Country of Origin:

India (primary source for generic aciclovir eye ointment 3% 5g tubes imported to Ghana; USP/BP-compliant). Some from Pakistan or Bangladesh in regional markets.