Skip to main content
Acyclovir

Acyclovir Side Effects

Kristianne Hannemann, PharmDDaisy Chau, PharmD
Reviewed by Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD, Daisy Chau, PharmD
Last reviewed on September 10, 2025

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Ointment:

  • Burning and stinging at application site (30%)

Cream:

  • Application site reaction (5%)

Less Common Side Effects

Ointment:

  • Itching at application site
  • Swelling or pain at the application site
  • Rash

Cream:

  • Allergic reaction
  • Eczema

Source: DailyMed

The following Acyclovir side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Mild pain, burning, or stinging

Less common

Itching

Rare

Itching, stinging, or redness of the genital area

skin rash

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

GoodRx icon

Other Herpes Virus Nucleoside Analogues side effects articles

Was this page helpful?

Latest articles