Interaction databaseSupplement × PrescriptionReviewed May 2026

Acyclovir and Quercetin, a synergy.

Quercetin has demonstrated antiviral activity against HSV-1 in vitro and in animal models, primarily by interfering with viral attachment and replication. While clinical trials in HSV are lacking, the mechanism is non-overlapping with acyclovir, and combination use during recurrent outbreaks is biologically plausible and low-risk at typical supplement doses.

One pair, every claim cited. The two substances, the type, the mechanism, the recommendation, and the primary literature.
Same shape as the other 1,729 pairs in the public database.

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At a glance

Substances
Acyclovir and Quercetin
Pair type
Synergy
Evidence (highest tier)
Emerging
Source citations
2 sources
Stack Score effect
+2 to your Stack Score (per scored synergy row).
Scope
Supplement × Prescription
Last verified
May 30, 2026

Synergy · Emerging evidence

Synergy

What is happening. Quercetin has demonstrated antiviral activity against HSV-1 in vitro and in animal models, primarily by interfering with viral attachment and replication. While clinical trials in HSV are lacking, the mechanism is non-overlapping with acyclovir, and combination use during recurrent outbreaks is biologically plausible and low-risk at typical supplement doses.

Mechanism. Quercetin disrupts HSV attachment, entry, and replication in vitro. Acyclovir is phosphorylated by viral thymidine kinase and inhibits DNA polymerase. The mechanisms target different steps of the viral life cycle.

Recommendation. Quercetin 250-500 mg/day is reasonable as an adjunct during HSV outbreaks while taking acyclovir. Do not use quercetin as a substitute for prescribed antiviral therapy.

Sources (2)
  1. Yu Y, et al. Quercetin inhibits herpes simplex virus 1 replication in corneal epithelium and suppresses keratitis progression. Virol Sin. 2025;40(4):419-433. PMID 40675379
  2. Various authors. Antiviral potential of phenolic compounds against HSV-1: In-vitro study. Microb Pathog. 2024. PMID 39311585

Stack Score

How this pair moves the number.

Effect on the composite score

If both Acyclovir and Quercetin are in the same stack, this pair applies +2 to your Stack Score (per scored synergy row).

The full algorithm, the clamping rules, and four worked stacks are documented at /methodology/stack-score.

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