Valtrex contains valacyclovir hydrochloride which is an antiviral drug. It is obtained in caplet form (500mg and 1gram).
Uses
Valtrex is used to slow down the spread and growth of the herpes virus to help the immune system fight the infection. This virus causes cold sores, shingles, genital herpes, and chicken pox. Valtrex cannot cure herpes, but it does relieve the painful symptoms.
Dosage
Take Valtrex as directed. The caplets should be taken orally, with or without food. During treatment increase your intake of fluids. This drug works best when the outbreak first appears, therefore the quicker you see a doctor, the better. Best results are achieved when treatment begins within 72 hours of the outbreak.
You must take the full course as prescribed even if the lesions start healing and you feel better. Do not miss any doses and do not stop using Valtrex unless ordered by a doctor. If you stop too soon, the treatment may be ineffectual. If this drug does not improve your condition, notify your doctor.
Side effects
Vomiting, nausea, headache, fatigue, stomach pain, or dizziness. If these last for more than a couple of days, notify a doctor.
Serious side effects: mood swings, hallucinations, agitation, confusion, unsteadiness, speech problems, vision changes, convulsions, unconsciousness, persistent sore throat, or fever. Notify a doctor immediately.
Valtrex, in rare cases, may cause a serious blood disorder called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, or a serious kidney disorder called hemolytic uremic syndrome. Both these conditions are more likely to affect patients who are HIV positive, or patients who have undergone a bone marrow or organ transplant. If you start to bleed or bruise easily, or notice an increase or decrease in the amount of urine, or if you are feverish, notify a doctor immediately.
Although the chances are unlikely, an allergic reaction to this drug should be immediately reported to a doctor. The symptoms would be trouble breathing, severe dizziness, swelling, itching, or rash.
Important warnings
If you are allergic to valacyclovir hydrochloride or other antiviral drugs, or any other medical compound, inform your doctor.
Inform your doctor if you have a medical history that includes blood disorders, kidney problems, or problems with your immune system, e.g. AIDS, organ or bone marrow transplant.
Valtrex may cause dizziness so be very careful if you do any activity that requires you to be alert such as driving or operating machines. Restrict your intake of alcohol.
Elderly people should be careful when using Valtrex as they may be prone to kidney problems, or they may feel agitated and confused.
Valtrex is not likely to harm an unborn fetus, but it can contaminate breast milk so women who are breastfeeding will have to speak to their doctors about the risks.
Some drugs can interact adversely with Valtrex. Therefore it is important that you tell the doctor about all medicines you regularly use. This includes all vitamin supplements, herbal products and any other prescription drugs.
Storage
Store all medications in a safe, dry and cool place where they are not exposed to sunlight or moisture. Keep away from children. Do not store in a bathroom.
