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What is Valtrex
 Valtrex
is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the
herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection.
Valtrex lessens the symptoms of these infections and shortens
the length of time you are sick.
Valtrex
is used to treat genital herpes, shingles, and cold sores.
Valtrex
may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this
medication guide.
General medical information about
Valtrex Take all of the Valtrex that has been prescribed
for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms
may start to improve before the infection is completely
treated.
Treatment with Valtrex should be started
as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms
(e.g. tingling, burning, blisters).
Herpes infections
are contagious and you can infect other people, even during
treatment. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact
with other people. Wash your hands frequently to prevent
transmission.
What you should find out before taking Valtrex Do not take Valtrex without first talking to your
doctor if you are allergic to acyclovir (Zovirax).
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
kidney disease. You may need a lower dose or special monitoring
during therapy with Valtrex.
Valtrex is in the FDA
pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected
to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication
without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant
or could become pregnant during treatment.
It is
not known whether Valtrex passes into breast milk and how
it may affect a nursing baby. Do not take this medication
without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding
a baby.
How should take Valtrex Take Valtrex exactly as directed by your doctor.
If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist,
nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Treatment
with Valtrex should be started as soon as possible after
the first appearance of symptoms (e.g. for cold sores-tingling,
burning, blisters).
Take each dose with a full glass
of water.
Valtrex can be taken with or without food.
Taking Valtrex with food may decrease stomach upset.
Take all of the Valtrex that has been prescribed for you
even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start
to improve before the infection is completely treated.
It is important to take Valtrex regularly to get the most
benefit.
Lesions caused by herpes viruses should
be kept as clean and dry as possible. Wearing loose clothing
may help to prevent irritation of the lesions.
Store
Valtrex at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
If you miss a dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However,
if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose,
skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed.
Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise
directed by your doctor.
What happens if you overdose: Seek emergency medical treatment.
The symptoms
of an overdose of Valtrex are not well known, but an overdose
of acyclovir (Zovirax), which is a similar drug, may cause
seizures, hallucinations, and kidney damage (decreased urine
production).
Avoid while taking Valtrex Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect
other people, even during treatment. Avoid letting infected
areas come into contact with other people. Wash your hands
frequently to prevent transmission.
Valtrex will
not prevent the spread of genital herpes. Avoidance of sexual
intercourse and use of latex condoms may prevent spreading
the virus to others.
Possible side effects of Valtrex Stop taking Valtrex and seek emergency medical attention
if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing;
closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or
face; or hives).
Other, less serious side effects
may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Valtrex and
talk to your doctor if you experience
- nausea, vomiting,
diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal pain;
- headache;
- dizziness; or
- tremors.
Side effects
other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your
doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that
is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect Valtrex Probenecid (Benemid) and cimetidine (Tagamet, Tagamet
HB) may increase the effects of Valtrex and possibly lead
to dangerous side effects. You may need a dosage adjustment
or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking
probenecid or cimetidine.
Drugs
other than those listed here may also interact with Valtrex.
Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription
or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.
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