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 Drug Name
Valtrex (Valaciclovir)
Drug Uses
Valtrex is used to treat herpes zoster (shingles) and genital herpes. It does not cure herpes infections but decreases pain and itching, helps sores to heal, and prevents new ones from forming.This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How Taken
Valtrex comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken every 8 hours (three times a day) for 7 days to treat shingles. To treat genital herpes it is usually taken twice a day for 5 days. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Valacyclovir hydrochloride exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Use this medication as soon as possible after symptoms appear. Continue to take Valtrex even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Valtrex without talking to your doctor.
Drug Class and Mechanism
Valtrex (valacyclovir) is a FDA-approved oral antiviral medication used for the treatment of herpes . Valtrex is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline, Inc. , based in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA.
Missed Dose
A missed dose of Valtrex can be taken as soon as you remember it but avoid it if it is too late, and the time for next regular scheduled dose has arrived. In such circumstances take the next dose as per direction. Avoid taking a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Warnings/Precautions
Before taking Valtrex, -- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acyclovir (Zovirax), Valtrex, or any other drugs.
-- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially cimetidine (Tagamet), probenecid (Benemid), and vitamins.
-- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease, problems with your immune system, human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV), or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
-- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Valacyclovir hydrochloride, call your doctor.
Possible Side Effects
Although side effects from Valtrex are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- headache
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- diarrhea or loose stools
- constipation
If you experience any of the following side effects, call your doctor immediately:
- rash
- itching
- confusion
- yellowness of the skin or eyes
- fever
- blood in the urine
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