Formulation:
Tablet
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Manufacturer:
Glaxo Smithkline
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Alternate Names:Valtrex (valacyclovir)
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What is Valtrex (valacyclovir) used for? |
Valtrex (valacyclovir) is used to treat shingles and to treat or suppress genital herpes.
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When should Valtrex (valacyclovir) not be taken?
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Do not take Valtrex (valacyclovir) if you are allergic to any ingredient in Valtrex (valacyclovir) or similar medications |
What precautions should I follow when taking Valtrex (valacyclovir) ?
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Before using Valtrex (valacyclovir), tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any prescription medicine, nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement if you have a weakened immune system if you have impaired kidney ot liver function if you have any other medical condition |
What special warning(s) should I be aware of when taking Valtrex (valacyclovir)?
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Valtrex (valacyclovir) can cause Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura/Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome resulting in death. Valtrex (valacyclovir) should not be used for the treatment of viral infections in immunocompromised patients. |
What are the side effects of Valtrex (valacyclovir)?
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Most severe: Unusual bleeding or bruising.
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Most common: Nausea; headache; vomiting; dizziness; stomach pain; painful menstruation; joint pain; depression.
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Other: bone pain, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting
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How should I take Valtrex (valacyclovir)?
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How much medicine you take and how often you take it depends on many factors, including the condition being treated, your age, and weight. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of Valtrex (valacyclovir) you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Valtrex (valacyclovir) may be taken without regard to meals. Valtrex (valacyclovir) should be taken at the earliest sign or symptom of shingles or genital herpes and is most effective when started within 48 hours of the start of the shingles or the first episode of genital herpes. Take Valtrex (valacyclovir) within 24 hours of recurrent episodes of genital herpes. Valtrex (valacyclovir) may not work after 72 hours past onset of shingles or genital herpes or after 24 hours past the onset of recurring genital herpes. It may not be effective in suppressing genital herpes beyond 1 year. Valtrex (valacyclovir) is not a cure for genital herpes. You should avoid contact with lesions or sexual intercourse to avoid infecting sexual partners. Valtrex (valacyclovir) may cause dizziness. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity. Do not stop taking Valtrex (valacyclovir) without checking with your doctor. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking Valtrex (valacyclovir). Do not take more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your doctor or health care provider. This includes any herbal preparations or dietary supplements. Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your doctor. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
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How should Valtrex (valacyclovir) be stored?
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Store Valtrex (valacyclovir) Tablet between 59 and 77 degrees F. |
General Information:
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| If you have any questions about Valtrex (valacyclovir), please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider. Valtrex (valacyclovir) is to be taken by the patient in whom it was prescribed. Do not give it to others. This information is advisory only. It does not contain all information about Valtrex (valacyclovir). If you have any questions about Valtrex (valacyclovir), ask your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
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