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Valtrex
Purchasing Information
DRUG NAME: VALTREX® (GlaxoWellcome)
COMMON NAME: VALACICLOVIR
What is this medication used for?
Valtrex® is used in the treatment and suppression of genital herpes
and to treat the symptoms of shingles (herpes zoster).uman growth hormone
used in the body to promote growth and increase metabolism.
Who should not take Valtrex?
People who are HIV positive or have received an organ transplant. Pregnant
or breastfeeding women.
How do I take my Valtrex?
For the treatment of recurrent genital herpes: Take 500 mg 2 times a day
for 5 days, unless otherwise directed by your physician. The medication
is most effective when taken as soon as possible after the first signs
of herpes infection. For suppression of chronic recurrent genital herpes:
In patients with a history of 10 or more recurrences per year: Take 1000
mg once a day, unless otherwise directed by your physician. In patients
with a history of 9 or fewer recurrences per year: Take 500 mg once a
day, unless otherwise directed by your physician. Valtrex® may be
taken with or without meals.
What are the possible side effects of Valtrex?
The most commonly reported side effects with use of Valtrex® were
headache, nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and constipation.
Patients with impaired kidney function may require a change in dosing.
If you have impaired renal function, and did not make your physician aware
on the consult form, please contact him before taking Valtrex®.
Other important information:
- The drugs cimetidine and probenecid have the potential to increase
the levels of Valtrex® in patients who are on these medications.
These effects are not considered to be of significance in patients with
normal renal function. If you are on either of these medications and
did not make the physician aware on your consult form, please contact
him before taking Valtrex®.
- Do not share this medication with anyone.
- Store this medication at room temperature and out of the reach of
children. Protect from moisture. Keep container tightly closed. Throw
away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
- Always take all of your medication, even if you start to feel better
before you finish all of it. Contact your doctor, pharmacist or seek
emergency medical attention if you start having difficulty breathing,
closing of throat, swelling of lips/throat/face, or hives.
- Take a missed dose as soon as possible, unless it is almost time for
your next dose.
- Do not take two doses at the same time.
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