Brand name:
Valtrex
Pronounced: VAL-trex
Generic name:
Valacyclovir hydrochloride
Why is Valtrex prescribed?
Valtrex is used to treat certain herpes infections, including
herpes zoster (the painful rash known as shingles), genital herpes,
and herpes cold sores on the face and lips.
Most important fact about Valtrex
Valtrex should not be used by anyone with a weak immune system,
such as those with HIV infection or those who have undergone a bone
marrow or kidney transplant. Valtrex can cause serious side effects,
including death, in such people.
How should you use Valtrex?
If you are taking Valtrex for shingles, you should start using it
as soon as possible after your doctor has made a diagnosis. It's
best to see a doctor and start the drug within 48 hours of first
noticing the rash. If you wait more than 72 hours after you first
get a herpes zoster rash, Valtrex may not be effective.
If you are using Valtrex for genital herpes, begin taking it at
the first sign of an attack. The medication may not be effective if
you wait longer than 72 hours after the first attack or 24 hours
after a later attack.
If you are taking Valtrex for cold sores, you should start using
it at the earliest signs of infection, such as tingling, itching, or
burning. If you wait until the cold sore develops, Valtrex
might not work.
You may take Valtrex with or without food.
--If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your
next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular
schedule. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
Valtrex side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue using Valtrex.
- Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain,
aggressive behavior,
agitation,
allergic reactions,
coma,
confusion,
decreased consciousness,
depression,
diarrhea,
dizziness,
facial swelling,
hallucinations,
headache,
hepatitis,
high blood pressure,
joint pain,
mania,
menstrual problems,
nausea,
rapid heartbeat,
rash,
visual abnormalities,
vomiting
Why should Valtrex not be prescribed?
Avoid Valtrex if you are sensitive to it or the similar drug
acyclovir (Zovirax).
Special warnings about Valtrex
High doses of Valtrex have proved dangerous in people whose
immune system is compromised because of HIV infection, bone marrow
transplant, or kidney transplant.
If your kidneys are not functioning properly, or you are taking
drugs that may damage the kidneys such as Neomycin or Streptomycin,
Valtrex can make your condition worse or affect your central nervous
system (brain and spinal cord).
Effects on the central nervous system are more common in older
adults, leading to such symptoms as agitation, confusion, and
hallucinations. Their kidneys are also more likely to be affected;
and those with kidney problems need a smaller dose. In addition,
older adults tend to suffer the pain of shingles for a longer time
after healing has begun.
Valtrex relieves the symptoms of genital herpes, but it is not a
cure. There's also no evidence that it will prevent transmission of
the disease. To avoid spreading the infection, don't have sexual
intercourse during a flare-up.
Valtrex is not intended for use in children.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Valtrex
If you are taking Valtrex with certain other drugs, the effect of
either drug could be increased, decreased, or altered. Check with
your doctor before combining Valtrex with cimetidine (Tagamet)
and/or probenecid (Benemid).
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Valtrex during pregnancy and breastfeeding have
not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become
pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. If you are nursing and
need to use Valtrex, your doctor may advise you to discontinue
breastfeeding while using Valtrex.
Recommended dosage for Valtrex
SHINGLES
Overdosage
When taken by people with kidney disorders, excessive doses of
Valtrex have been known to cause psychological problems and kidney
failure. If you suspect an overdose, check with your doctor
immediately.
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