ExoticRx · exoticrx.com/drugs/acyclovir
Acyclovir
Zovirax
Drug Class
Routes
Indications
Mechanism of Action
Nucleoside analog selectively phosphorylated by viral thymidine kinase. Inhibits viral DNA polymerase. Active against herpesviruses.
Side effects & warnings
Used for equine herpesvirus and some avian herpesviruses. Limited efficacy for FHV-1 in cats (famciclovir preferred). Nephrotoxicity with IV form — ensure hydration. Crystalluria.
Species with Acyclovir dosing data (2 dose rules)
Species references:All African Grey Parrot drugsAll Cat (Domestic) drugs
Evidence levels across 2 dose rules
Each ExoticRx dose rule is graded by the strength of its primary evidence — see the editorial process.
Backed by 2 published sources
- · Carpenter's Exotic Animal Formulary, 6th Ed
- · Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Sample dosing (1 of 2 cited rules)
A dog/cat sample is shown here. Cited dosing for all 2 species — reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine — is free on the per-species pages above. Pro adds the weight-based calculator for every species.
| Species | Route | Dose | Frequency | Evidence | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cat (Domestic) | PO | 10–25 mg/kg | q8h | Weak | Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed |
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Source citations and evidence levels available on the live page. Reference only — verify against current literature before clinical use.