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Drug Uses -
Valtrex is used to treat herpes zoster (shingles), suppression of genital herpes in immunocompetent individuals, the suppression of recurrent genital herpes in HIV-infected individuals and also cold sores (herpes labialis).
How Taken -
Valtrex is a tablet to be taken orally every 8 hours (three times a day) for 7 days to treat shingles, twice a day for 5 days to treat genital herpes and for one day only to treat cold sores. Do not exceed or diminish prescribed dose. Start the treatment as soon as possible after the symptoms appear. Do not give up using Valtrex without medical consultation.
Warnings/Precautions -
Before taking Valtrex you should consult with your doctor. It is necessary to tell the next information: if you have an allergy to acyclovir (Zovirax), if you have kidney disease or immune system problems. You may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment with Valtrex. In such conditions you may not be able to take Valtrex or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment. Valtrex is in the FDA pregnancy category B. It is not expected to be detrimental to an unborn baby. You should consult with your doctor if you are pregnant, could become pregnant during treatment or if you are breast-feeding a baby, as Valtrex passes into breast milk.
Missed Dose -
In case you have missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But don't take an extra dose in situation when you forget to take Valtrex and it is near the time for the next intake. Wait and take the next dose according to the schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Possible Side Effects -
Some patients may experience kidney failure and nervous system problems: aggressive behavior, unsteady movement, shaky movements, confusion, speech problems, hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are really not there), seizures, and coma. These problems are likely to occur in patients who already have kidney disease and in elderly patients whose kidneys do not work well due to age. In such cases consult with your doctor. Before taking Valtrex tell your doctor if you have had kidney problems. Common side effects of Valtrex include headache, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, and dizziness, tiredness and rash. They are usually mild, and they are not a reason to stop the usage. The less common effects are painful periods in women, joint pain; depression, low blood cell counts, and changes in tests that measure how well the liver and kidneys work.
Storage -
It should be stored at 15° to 25°C (59° to 77°F) in a tightly closed container. It must be kept out of the reach of children. Immediately throw away medicine after the expiration date.
Overdose -
In case an overdose is suspected, seek emergency. The symptoms of an overdose are not well known, but an overdose of acyclovir (Zovirax) may be similar and include seizures, hallucinations, and kidney damage (decreased urine production).
More Information -
Be careful. Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even during treatment. Try to avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people and wash your hands frequently to prevent transmission. Valtrex is not used for the prevention of spread of genital herpes. You should avoid sexual intercourse. Usage of latex condoms may prevent the spreading of the infection to others.
Disclaimer -
This is not complete information about this drug. It does not cover all aspects of Valtrex usage (directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects). This data should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be used for any particular patient. We point out reliability of this information and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse after-effects to persons, however such damages or sequels arise. No warranty is made in regards to this information.
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