IMPORTANT NOTE:
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist
or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed
to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or
effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before
using this drug.
VALACYCLOVIR-ORAL (val-uh-SYE-klo-veer)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Valtrex
USES: Valacyclovir is an
antiviral agent used in the treatment of shingles (herpes
zoster) or genital herpes.
OTHER USES: This medication
may also be used for cold sores (herpes simplex).
HOW TO USE: Take this medication
by mouth as directed. Take all this medication as prescribed.
Do not skip doses or stop taking this without your doctor's
approval. Stopping therapy too soon may result in ineffective
treatment. For best results, take this medication at evenly
spaced intervals throughout the day and night.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting,
headache, loss of appetite, weakness, stomach pain, or dizziness
may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the
medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome,
inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if your condition does
not appear to improve or you experience a worsening of symptoms
while taking this medication. Use caution operating machinery
or participating in activities requiring alertness if this
medication makes you feel dizzy. If you notice other effects
not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor
if you have: kidney disease, blood disorders, any allergies.
Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because
they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This
medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not
known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult with
your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your
doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication
you may take including: cimetidine, probenecid. Do not start
or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is
suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency
room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include sluggishness,
change in amount of urine, loss of consciousness, or seizures.
NOTES: This medication is
most effective if it is started within 48 hours of when the
rash first appears.
MISSED DOSE: Try to take
each dose at the scheduled time. If you miss a dose, take
it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the
time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and
resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up"
the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store this medication
at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 to 25
degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom.
Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
