Acyclovir (topical) Eye Ointment: Uses, Brands & Dosage

Acyclovir topical eye ointment is an antiviral medicine used to treat a specific type of eye infection called Herpes simplex epithelial keratitis, also known as a dendritic corneal ulcer.

Drug class	Antiviral
Type	Single
Forms	Eye Ointment
Common strength	3% w/w
Common Indian brands	Ocuvir Eye Ointment, Acivir Eye Ointment, Herpex
Prescription status	Prescription

What Acyclovir (topical) is used for

Acyclovir topical eye ointment is an anti-infective medicine, specifically an antiviral, used to treat certain eye conditions. It is prescribed for:

Herpes simplex epithelial keratitis (dendritic corneal ulcer): This is an infection of the cornea (the clear front part of your eye) caused by the herpes simplex virus. It often appears as a branching, tree-like ulcer on the corneal surface.

This medicine helps to combat the virus responsible for this specific type of eye infection, aiding in the healing process and preventing the infection from worsening.

It is crucial to understand that Acyclovir topical eye ointment is specifically targeted at this viral infection and should only be used for the condition it is prescribed for by your ophthalmologist.

The cornea is a vital part of your eye, responsible for focusing light. Infections like Herpes simplex epithelial keratitis can significantly affect your vision and eye comfort if not treated promptly and correctly. Acyclovir topical eye ointment provides a focused treatment to address the viral cause of this condition.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the use of this medicine to ensure the best possible outcome for your eye health.

How it works

Acyclovir topical eye ointment works by targeting the herpes simplex virus directly. When the virus infects the cells of your cornea, it tries to multiply and spread. Acyclovir interferes with this process by blocking the herpes virus from copying its DNA inside your corneal cells.

By preventing the virus from making new copies of itself, Acyclovir helps to stop the infection from spreading and allows your body to fight off the existing virus more effectively. This action helps to heal the dendritic corneal ulcer and reduce the damage caused by the viral infection.

Think of it like this: the virus needs to make copies of itself to grow and cause more problems. Acyclovir acts as a roadblock, stopping the virus from completing this copying process. This specific mechanism makes it a very effective treatment for viral infections like Herpes simplex epithelial keratitis.

The medicine is applied directly to the eye, allowing it to reach the site of infection and act locally on the affected corneal cells. This targeted approach helps to minimize systemic side effects while maximizing its antiviral action where it is needed most.

Understanding how your medicine works can help you appreciate the importance of using it exactly as prescribed by your ophthalmologist.

How it’s used

Acyclovir topical eye ointment is a prescription eye medicine that comes in a 3% w/w strength. It is crucial to use it exactly as directed by your qualified ophthalmologist.

Typical Dosing Instructions:

You will usually need to apply the eye ointment 5 times a day.
The treatment typically lasts for 10 to 14 days.

Your doctor will provide specific instructions tailored to your condition. Do not alter the dose or duration of treatment without consulting your ophthalmologist.

General Steps for Applying Eye Ointment:

Wash Your Hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your eyes or the ointment tube. This prevents germs from entering your eye.
Prepare the Ointment: Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
Apply the Ointment: Hold the ointment tube close to your eye without touching your eye or eyelid with the tip. Squeeze a small amount (about a rice grain size) of ointment into the pocket you created in your lower eyelid.
Close Your Eye: Gently close your eye for a minute or two. Avoid blinking excessively, as this can push the ointment out.
Wipe Excess: If any ointment spills onto your skin around the eye, gently wipe it away with a clean tissue.
Wash Hands Again: Wash your hands again after applying the ointment to remove any medicine residue.

Important Tips:

Do not touch the tip of the ointment tube to your eye, eyelid, or any other surface. This can contaminate the ointment.
Do not share your eye ointment with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms.
If you are using other eye drops or ointments, wait at least 5-10 minutes between applications to allow each medicine to be absorbed properly. Your doctor will advise you on the correct order if multiple medicines are prescribed.
Consistency is Key: Try to apply the ointment at the same times each day to maintain a consistent level of medicine in your eye.
Complete the Full Course: Even if your symptoms improve, continue using the ointment for the entire duration prescribed by your doctor. Stopping early can lead to the infection returning or becoming more difficult to treat.

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

If you experience any difficulty applying the ointment or have concerns, please speak to your ophthalmologist or the hospital staff for guidance.

Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.

Brands available in India

Ocuvir Eye Ointment
Acivir Eye Ointment
Herpex

Brand availability and pricing vary; confirm with your pharmacist.

Good to know

Prescription eye medicine — use only as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. This page is for general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or a prescription. Do not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription.

Precautions & side effects

When using Acyclovir topical eye ointment, it is important to be aware of certain precautions to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of the treatment:

Steroid Drops: It is critical to understand that steroid drops must NOT be used in an active dendritic ulcer. Using steroid drops in such a condition can cause the ulcer to spread dangerously and worsen the infection significantly. Always inform your ophthalmologist about all other eye medicines you are using or have recently used.
Prescription Medicine: Acyclovir topical eye ointment is a prescription eye medicine. It should only be used as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. Do not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription without consulting your doctor.
Contamination: To prevent contamination, do not touch the tip of the ointment tube to your eye, eyelid, or any other surface. Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the ointment.
Sharing: Do not share your eye ointment with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms. Eye infections can be different and require specific treatments.
Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any known allergies to Acyclovir or any other medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss this with your ophthalmologist before using this medicine.
Driving and Operating Machinery: Eye ointments can sometimes cause temporary blurring of vision after application. If this occurs, avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision clears.
Contact Lenses: It is generally advisable to avoid wearing contact lenses during an active eye infection. Your ophthalmologist will advise you on when it is safe to resume wearing them.
Storage: Store the ointment as instructed, typically in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.

While Acyclovir topical eye ointment is generally well-tolerated, some people might experience mild, temporary side effects such as stinging, burning, or blurred vision immediately after application. If these effects persist or worsen, or if you notice any new or unusual symptoms, contact your ophthalmologist immediately.

This page is for general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or a prescription. Always rely on the guidance of your ophthalmologist for your specific eye care needs.

Understanding Herpes Simplex Epithelial Keratitis (Dendritic Corneal Ulcer)

Herpes simplex epithelial keratitis, often referred to as a dendritic corneal ulcer, is a common viral infection affecting the cornea – the transparent, dome-shaped front surface of your eye. This infection is caused by the herpes simplex virus, the same virus responsible for cold sores on the lips. When this virus affects the eye, it can lead to a characteristic branching or tree-like pattern on the cornea, which is why it’s called ‘dendritic’ (from the Greek word ‘dendron’ meaning tree).

The cornea is crucial for clear vision as it helps focus light onto the retina. An infection like a dendritic corneal ulcer can cause significant discomfort, redness, tearing, light sensitivity, and blurred vision. If left untreated or improperly treated, it can lead to more severe complications, including scarring of the cornea and permanent vision loss. The virus can lie dormant in the body and reactivate under certain conditions like stress, fever, or exposure to sunlight, leading to recurrent episodes of the eye infection. Early diagnosis and appropriate antiviral treatment, such as Acyclovir topical eye ointment, are vital to manage the infection, promote healing, and protect your vision.

It’s important to understand that this is a viral infection, and antibiotics, which treat bacterial infections, will not be effective. Antiviral medicines like Acyclovir are specifically designed to target and inhibit the herpes virus. Always follow your ophthalmologist’s advice, as they will correctly diagnose the type of keratitis and prescribe the most suitable treatment.

Correct Application of Eye Ointment and General Eye Hygiene

Applying eye ointment correctly is essential for the medicine to work effectively and to prevent further infection. Here’s a step-by-step guide and some general hygiene tips:

Wash Your Hands Thoroughly: This is the most critical step. Always wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after touching your eyes or applying any eye medicine. This prevents the transfer of germs from your hands to your eyes.
Avoid Contamination: Never let the tip of the ointment tube touch your eye, eyelid, eyelashes, or any other surface. This can introduce bacteria or other contaminants into the medicine, which can then be transferred to your eye. If the tip does touch something, it’s best to discard the tube and use a new one if available, or consult your pharmacist/doctor.
Prepare for Application: Gently pull down your lower eyelid with one finger to create a small pocket. Look upwards slightly.
Apply the Ointment: Hold the tube horizontally over your eye. Squeeze a small ribbon of ointment (about the size of a grain of rice) into the pocket of your lower eyelid. Do not squeeze too much.
Close Your Eye Gently: After applying, gently close your eye for 1-2 minutes. Avoid blinking vigorously, as this can push the ointment out of your eye. The warmth of your eye will help melt the ointment and spread it across the eye surface.
Wipe Excess: If any ointment spills onto your skin around the eye, gently wipe it away with a clean tissue.
Do Not Share: Eye medicines are personal. Never share your eye ointment with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms. What might seem like a similar problem could be a different condition requiring different treatment.
Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, it is usually recommended to remove them during an active eye infection and while using eye ointments. Your ophthalmologist will advise you on when it is safe to resume wearing them.
General Eye Care: Avoid rubbing your eyes, especially with unwashed hands, as this can worsen irritation or spread infection. Use clean tissues or cotton balls for any eye discharge.

Storage and When to Seek Medical Help

Proper storage of your eye medicine ensures its effectiveness and safety. Always store Acyclovir topical eye ointment according to the instructions on the packaging or as advised by your pharmacist. Typically, this means keeping it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. Ensure it is kept out of reach of children and pets. Do not use the ointment past its expiry date, as its effectiveness may be reduced, and it could potentially be harmful.

While Acyclovir topical eye ointment is an effective treatment for Herpes simplex epithelial keratitis, it is crucial to know when to seek further medical attention. You should contact your ophthalmologist immediately if:

Your symptoms worsen despite using the ointment as prescribed.
You experience severe eye pain, sudden vision changes, or intense light sensitivity.
You notice any new or unusual symptoms, such as a rash, swelling around the eye, or severe discomfort.
You develop signs of an allergic reaction, such as itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing (though rare with topical application).
You accidentally get the ointment in your mouth or swallow it.

Even if your symptoms improve, it is vital to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your ophthalmologist. Stopping the medicine too early can lead to the infection recurring or becoming more resistant to treatment. Regular follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist are important to monitor your progress and ensure the infection has fully cleared. Remember, your ophthalmologist is your best resource for any concerns regarding your eye health and treatment.

Frequently asked questions

What is Acyclovir topical eye ointment used for?

Acyclovir topical eye ointment is an antiviral medicine used to treat a specific eye infection called Herpes simplex epithelial keratitis, also known as a dendritic corneal ulcer. This is a viral infection of the cornea (the clear front part of your eye).

How does Acyclovir topical eye ointment work?

Acyclovir topical eye ointment works by blocking the herpes virus from copying its DNA inside the cells of your cornea. This action prevents the virus from multiplying and spreading, helping to heal the infection.

What are some common Indian brands of Acyclovir eye ointment?

Some common Indian brands of Acyclovir eye ointment include Ocuvir Eye Ointment, Acivir Eye Ointment, and Herpex.

How should I use Acyclovir topical eye ointment?

You should apply Acyclovir topical eye ointment 5 times a day for 10 to 14 days, or exactly as directed by your ophthalmologist. Always wash your hands before and after application, and avoid touching the tip of the tube to your eye.

Do I need a prescription for Acyclovir topical eye ointment?

Yes, Acyclovir topical eye ointment is a prescription medicine. You must use it only as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist and should not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription.

Are there any important precautions I should know about Acyclovir eye ointment?

A critical precaution is that steroid drops must NOT be used if you have an active dendritic ulcer, as they can cause the ulcer to spread dangerously. Always inform your doctor about all medicines you are using. Also, ensure you use the ointment exactly as prescribed and do not share it with others.

References

Medically reviewed by Dr. C Jagadesh Reddy, Chief Surgeon: Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery — last reviewed 2026-07-28.

This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Always consult a qualified ophthalmologist before starting, changing or stopping any eye medicine.