Acyclovir Resistance Treatment: Options & Insights

When dealing with Acyclovir Resistance Treatment, therapies used when herpes viruses stop responding to acyclovir. Also known as ACV resistance therapy, it becomes a concern mostly for HSV Infection, the common cold‑sores and genital herpes caused by herpes simplex virus. The virus can mutate its DNA polymerase, lowering drug binding, and patients may see persistent lesions despite standard dosing. Understanding this link – acyclovir resistance treatment encompasses alternative antivirals – is the first step toward effective care.

Resistance doesn’t appear in a vacuum. Immunocompromised Patients, people with weakened immune systems due to HIV, organ transplants, chemotherapy, or steroids are far more likely to develop resistant strains because the virus replicates longer and drug pressure stays high. Immunocompromised patients are more prone to acyclovir resistance. For them, clinicians often order viral load testing or resistance genotyping, which pinpoints specific polymerase mutations. Early detection lets doctors switch therapy before widespread lesions cause complications.

Two drugs dominate the alternative playbook: Foscarnet, a pyrophosphate analog that blocks viral DNA polymerase without needing activation by viral kinases and Cidofovir, a nucleotide analogue that also bypasses the viral kinase step and works against resistant HSV strains. Both address viral DNA polymerase mutations that render acyclovir ineffective. Foscarnet is given IV and requires close monitoring of kidney function and electrolytes, while cidofovir can be administered intravenously less frequently but carries a risk of nephrotoxicity that also demands hydration protocols. Knowing when to use each drug – based on mutation type, patient renal status, and infection severity – turns a scary resistance scenario into a manageable treatment plan.

Putting it all together, successful acyclovir resistance treatment hinges on three actions: (1) identify resistance early through testing, (2) assess patient immune status, and (3) select the right alternative antiviral with proper monitoring. Below you’ll find articles that dive deeper into skin‑related outcomes, viral testing methods, and step‑by‑step guides for using foscarnet or cidofovir safely. Browse the collection to see practical tips, dosage charts, and real‑world case studies that can help you or your clinician make informed decisions when acyclovir no longer does the job.