Valacyclovir

Uses

Prescribed to treat shingles (herpes zoster), genital herpes and cold sores associated with herpes virus.

Valacyclovir (Brand Name: Valtrex) is an oral drug that is prescribed to treat the family of herpes virus infections. It helps to reduce the spread of herpes and lessen the symptoms associated with herpes, such as pain, burning, tingling, tenderness, and itching. It may also help to heal sores and prevent new ones from forming. It is used to treat shingles (herpes zoster), cold sores and fever blisters associated with oral herpes and genital herpes. It is a prodrug -- it is not active itself. Rather, it is converted to acyclovir in the body, and it is the acyclovir that is active against the herpes viruses.

Dosing

Dosing regimens are variable. For shingles (herpes zoster), valacyclovir is often prescribed at a dose of 500mg every 8 hours for a week. To treat genital herpes, 500mg twice a day for 3-5 days may be prescribed. For recurrences of orofacial herpes, 2000mg every 12 hours for a single day is effective. The drug can be taken with or without food. For any of the herpes infections valacyclovir is most effective if it is started immediately after onset of symptoms . within

Side Effects

Side effects most commonly include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, gas, mild to moderate stomach pain, and constipation. Serious but rare side effects include rash, itching, confusion, yellowness of the skin or eyes, fever, and blood in the urine. If you experience one of the serious side effects, notify your doctor immediately.

Notes of Precaution

Before taking valacyclovir, tell your doctor if you are allergic to acyclovir, valacyclovir or other drugs.

Probenecid (Benemid) or cimetidine (Tagamet) may increase the risk of side effects of valacyclovir.

Do not have sexual intercourse during an outbreak of genital herpes (but note that genital herpes can still be transmitted even if you are not having an outbreak).

Valacyclovir should be stored at room temperature.

Before taking Valacyclovir, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to be pregnant.