Acyclovir vs Metronidazole

## Acyclovir vs Metronidazole: Overview

This comparison examines the pharmacological differences between **Acyclovir** and **Metronidazole**.

## Mechanism of Action

**Acyclovir**: Guanosine analogue inhibiting viral DNA polymerase.

**Metronidazole**: Forms cytotoxic free radicals that damage bacterial DNA.

## Pharmacokinetics

**Half-life**: Acyclovir — 2.5-3.3 hours; Metronidazole — 8 hours.

## Chemical Properties

**Molecular Formula**: Acyclovir — C8H11N5O3; Metronidazole — C6H9N3O3.

**Molecular Weight**: Acyclovir — 225.2050 g/mol; Metronidazole — 171.1540 g/mol.

**Type**: Acyclovir — Small molecule; Metronidazole — Small molecule.