Brand name:
VALACYCLOVIR
Pronounced: VAL-trex
Generic name: Valacyclovir hydrochloride
Why is VALACYCLOVIR prescribed?
VALACYCLOVIR 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 VALACYCLOVIR
VALACYCLOVIR 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. VALACYCLOVIR can cause serious side effects, including
death, in such people.
How should you use VALACYCLOVIR?
If you are taking VALACYCLOVIR 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, VALACYCLOVIR may not be effective.
If you are using VALACYCLOVIR 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 VALACYCLOVIR 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, VALACYCLOVIR might not work.
You may take VALACYCLOVIR 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.
VALACYCLOVIR 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 VALACYCLOVIR.
* 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 VALACYCLOVIR not be prescribed?
Avoid VALACYCLOVIR if you are sensitive to it or the similar drug acyclovir
(Zovirax).
Special warnings about VALACYCLOVIR
High doses of VALACYCLOVIR 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, VALACYCLOVIR
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.
VALACYCLOVIR 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.
VALACYCLOVIR is not intended for use in children.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking VALACYCLOVIR
If you are taking VALACYCLOVIR with certain other drugs, the effect of
either drug could be increased, decreased, or altered. Check with your
doctor before combining VALACYCLOVIR with cimetidine (Tagamet) and/or probenecid
(Benemid).
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of VALACYCLOVIR without rx 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
VALACYCLOVIR, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding
while using VALACYCLOVIR.
Recommended dosage for VALACYCLOVIR
SHINGLES
Overdosage
