Indications
- Valacyclovir is used to treat infections caused by certain types of viruses.
- In children, it is used to treat cold sores and chickenpox.
- In adults, it is used to treat shingles and cold sores.
- Valacyclovir is also used to treat outbreaks of genital herpes.
- It is an antiviral drug that stops the growth of certain viruses.
- It is not a cure for these infections, but helps reduce severity and length of outbreaks.
- It helps sores heal faster, prevents new sores, and reduces pain/itching.
- It may also reduce how long pain lasts after sores heal.
Dosage and administration
- Read the Patient Information Leaflet before taking valacyclovir.
- Take valacyclovir by mouth with or without food.
- Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication.
- Dosage and length of treatment depend on the infection, medical condition, and response to treatment.
- For chickenpox in children, dosage is based on weight.
- Start taking valacyclovir at the first sign of an outbreak as directed by your doctor.
- It may not work as well if treatment is delayed.
- Take valacyclovir at evenly spaced intervals.
- Continue taking the medication until the full prescribed amount is finished.
- Do not change dose, skip doses, or stop medication early without doctor’s approval.
- Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.
Side effects
- Nausea, stomach pain, headache, or dizziness may occur.
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist if these effects persist or worsen.
- The medication is prescribed because the benefits outweigh the risk of side effects for most people.
- Seek immediate medical attention for serious side effects like kidney problems, mental/mood changes, shaky movements, unusual tiredness, fast heartbeat, easy bruising/bleeding, new fever, bloody/dark urine, severe stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin.
- Seek immediate medical attention for very serious side effects like sudden vision changes, trouble speaking, loss of consciousness, seizures.
- A serious allergic reaction is rare but seek medical help if you experience symptoms like rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
- This list does not include all possible side effects, so contact your doctor or pharmacist for any other effects noticed.
Precautions
- Before taking valacyclovir, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or other similar medications.
- This medication may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions.
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, especially kidney problems and immune system problems.
- Valacyclovir may cause dizziness, and alcohol or marijuana can increase this effect.
- Avoid driving or operating machinery until you can do so safely.
- Before surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all the medications you are taking.
- Inform healthcare professionals before receiving immunizations/vaccinations.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects, such as mental/mood changes and kidney problems.
- Cold sores can easily spread, so avoid close physical contact during an outbreak and wash hands after touching a cold sore.
- Valacyclovir does not prevent the spread of herpes, so use barrier methods during sexual activity to reduce the risk.
- Discuss the use of valacyclovir during pregnancy with your doctor.
- Valacyclovir may pass into breast milk but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant.
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