Acyclovir can reduce the number of days with fever in otherwise healthy children with chickenpox
By www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Chickenpox (varicella) is caused by a virus. It begins with a fever, followed by a rash of red pimples which become itchy sores that form scabs. Chickenpox usually affects children from one to 14 years. In young babies, adults or people with impaired immune system, chickenpox is more severe. Treatments include lotions to relieve itchiness, paracetamol (acetaminophen) for fever and the antiviral drug acyclovir. The review of trials found that acyclovir reduces the number of days of fever from chickenpox in otherwise healthy children, usually without adverse effects. It is not clear whether it improves sores and itching.
Background: Acyclovir has the potential to shorten the course of illness which may result in reduced costs and morbidity associated with chickenpox.
Objectives: To examine the evidence evaluating the efficacy of acyclovir in alleviating symptoms of chickenpox and shortening the duration of illness.
To examine complications of chickenpox and adverse effects associated with acyclovir as reported in the relevant trials.
Search methods: We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library, 2008, issue 3) which contains the Acute Respiratory Infections Group's Specialized Register, MEDLINE (1950 to Septemer Week 3, 2008), and EMBASE (1974 to September 2008). The reference lists of all relevant articles were reviewed.
Selection criteria: Randomized controlled trials that evaluated otherwise healthy children zero to 18 years of age, with chickenpox.
Data collection and analysis: Two review authors independently reviewed the studies for eligibility. Two review authors independently assessed methodological quality of the relevant studies using the Jadad scale and allocation concealment. Differences were resolved by consensus. Data were extracted by one review author using a structured form and checked by a second.
Continuous data were converted to the weighted mean difference (WMD). Weighted mean differences were combined into an overall estimate using random effects. There were too few studies to consider exploring statistical heterogeneity between studies (i.e., differences in reported effects), formally, or to assess for publication bias.
Main results: Three studies were included. Study quality was three (n = 2) and four (n = 1) on the Jadad scale. Acyclovir was associated with a reduction in the number of days with fever (-1.1 days, 95% CI -1.3 to -0.9) and in reducing the maximum number of lesions (-76 lesions, -145 to -8). Results were less supportive with respect to the number of days to no new lesions and the number of days to the relief of itching. There were no clinically important differences between acyclovir and placebo with respect to complications associated with chickenpox or adverse effects associated with the treatment.
Authors' conclusions: Acyclovir appears to be effective in reducing the number of days with fever and the maximum number of lesions among otherwise healthy children with chickenpox. The results were less convincing with respect to the number of days to no new lesions and relief of itchiness. The clinical importance of acyclovir treatment in otherwise healthy children remains uncertain.
Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0011728/
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Using Pyridium For Uti: What Patients Should Know
Uti is a condition that affects a significant number of people and can range from mild and occasional to persistent and severely disruptive. Understanding the available treatment options is an important part of managing symptoms effectively. Healthcare providers evaluate the severity of the condition and the patient's overall health profile before recommending a specific medication or combination of treatments. Allergic conditions affect hundreds of millions of people worldwide and range from mild seasonal symptoms to chronic conditions that persist throughout the year. The immune system's overreaction to harmless environmental substances such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and certain foods drives most allergic disease. Histamine, released by immune cells when they detect an allergen, is the primary chemical mediator responsible for the familiar symptoms of sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin reactions. Pyridium (phenazopyridine) belongs to the class of medications used for uti relief and is commonly considered by clinicians evaluating treatment options for this condition. Patients looking closely at pyridium for uti will find that the medication offers a practical option for many individuals dealing with this specific issue, particularly when first-line approaches have provided incomplete relief. As with any prescription or over-the-counter medication, proper dosing and adherence to usage guidelines are essential to getting the most benefit from Pyridium while minimizing the risk of side effects. Taking the medication as directed, at the appropriate time of day, and for the full recommended duration helps ensure therapeutic blood levels are maintained. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all other medications they are taking to check for potential interactions. For broader context on treatment options related to uti relief, https://mednewwsstoday.com/uti-relief/ provides evidence-based information covering the full range of medications used in this therapeutic area, helping patients and caregivers compare approaches and make informed decisions alongside their medical team.
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