(brand name Alti- or Avirax), with its CAS registry number , has its IUPAC name of 2-amino-9-[(2-hydroxyethoxy)methyl]-6,9-dihydro-3H-purin-6-one. This chemical belongs to the classes of s and Purine Derivatives. Besides, it is a guanosine analog that acts as an antimetabolite and is especially used against herpes.

Following are the detailed information of Aciclovir:
(1). Indication Aciclovir: For the treatment and management of herpes zoster (shingles), genital herpes, and chickenpox
(2). Pharmacodynamics Aciclovir: Aciclovir (INN) or acyclovir (USAN, former BAN) is a synthetic deoxyguanosine analog and it is the prototype antiviral agent that is activated by viral thymidine kinase. The selective activity of aciclovir is due to its affinity for the thymidine kinase enzyme encoded by HSV and VZV.
(3). Mechanism of action: Viral (HSV-1, HSV-2 and VZV) thymidine kinase converts aciclovir to the aciclovir monophosphate, which is then converted to the diphosphate by cellular guanylate kinase, and finally to the triphosphate by phosphoglycerate kinase, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, and pyruvate kinase. Aciclovir triphosphate competitively inhibits viral DNA polymerase and competes with the natural deoxyguanosine triphosphate, for incorporation into viral DNA. Once incorporated, aciclovir triphosphate inhibits DNA synthesis by acting as a chain terminator.
(4). Absorption Aciclovir: Oral: bioavailability 10 to 20%