Valtrex

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VALTREX is the only once-a-day prescription medication proven to suppress future genital herpes outbreaks. VALTREX works by disrupting the process by which the herpes virus reproduces itself and spreads to other cells in the body. There is no cure for genital herpes, and no drug has been proven to prevent the spread of herpes to others. Use VALTREX to suppress herpes outbreaks or to treat them when they occur.

• Just one caplet once a day effectively suppresses outbreaks, and for some people, may suppress them altogether for up to a year. The recommended dosage for suppressive therapy is 1 g, once a day. In patients with a history of nine or fewer outbreaks per year an alternative dose is 500 mg, once a day.
• Just 500 mg twice a day for 3 days speeds healing and reduces the duration of pain of a recurrent outbreak.

The most common side effects are headache, nausea and abdominal pain. VALTREX is intended for adults with normal immune systems. If your immune system is not normal because of advanced HIV disease or bone marrow or kidney transplant, make sure your doctor knows this to avoid a potentially serious complication.

Valtrex®

(VALACYCLOVIR-ORAL)

Uses

Valtrex is an antiviral agent used in the treatment of herpes zoster (shingles), genital herpes and is also being used for herpes simplex (cold sores).

How to take this medication

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.

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 Valtrex.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have any kidney disease, blood disorders or if you have any allergies. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if Valtrex 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 or probenecid.

Notes

Valtrex is most effective if it is started within 48 hours of when the rash first appears.

Miss 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. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.