Aciclovir (Acyclovir) is one of the most commonly used antiviral drug. Aciclovir works by slowing the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Aciclovir (Acyclovir) will not cure herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infection.
Aciclovir is used to decrease pain and speed the healing of sores or blisters in people who have chickenpox, herpes zoster (shingles), and first-time or repeat outbreaks of genital herpes and cold sores (herpes simplex 1 and 2). Acyclovir is also sometimes used to prevent outbreaks of genital herpes in people who are infected with the virus.