|
Valacyclovir
Brand
Name: Valtrex
Most
Common Medical Uses
Valtrex
is an antiviral agent most commonly used in the treatment of herpes
zoster (shingles), genital herpes and is also being used for herpes
simplex (cold sores). It slows the growth and spread of the herpes
virus so that the body can fight off the infection and lessens the
symptoms of these infections and shortens the length of time you
are sick. It may also be used to treat other conditions.
How
to Take This Medication
Take
as directed by your doctor. Valtrex can be taken with or without
food. Taking Valtrex with food may decrease stomach upset. Usually
take 1 tablet 2 times daily by mouth for acute outbreaks and 1 tablet
daily as a maintenance dose if needed. Do not skip doses or stop
taking this without your doctor's approval. Stopping therapy too
soon may result in ineffective treatment. Take all of the Valtrex
that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better.
Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely
treated.
Possible
Side Effects
Possible
side effects of taking Valtrex are nausea, vomiting, headache, loss
of appetite, weakness, stomach pain or dizziness may occur the first
several days as your body adjusts to the medication. Notify your
doctor if your condition does not appear to improve or you experience
a worsening of symptoms while taking this medication. Talk to your
doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially
bothersome.
Precautions
Do
not take Valtrex without first talking to your doctor if you are
allergic to Acyclovir (Zovirax).Tell your doctor if you have any
kidney disease, blood disorders or if you have any allergies. Valtrex
should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Do not take
this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are
breast-feeding a baby. If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss
with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during
pregnancy.
Drug
Interactions
Tell
your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you
may take including cimetidine (Tagamet, Tagamet HB) or probenecid
(Benemid), as they may increase the effects of Valtrex and possibly
lead to dangerous side effects. Talk to your doctor and/or pharmacist
before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including
herbal products.
Missed
Dose
If
you miss a dose of this medicine, take the dose as soon as you remember.
However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose,
skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled
dose. Do not take a double dose.
Storage
Store this medicine at room temperature in a tightly-closed container,
away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep this and all medications
out of the reach of children.
Notes
Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people,
even during treatment. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact
with other people. Wash your hands frequently to prevent transmission.
Do not share Valtrex with others for whom it was not prescribed,
since they may have a problem that is not effectively treated by
this drug.
|
