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What is this Drug
Valtrex (val-ay-SYE-kloe-veer) is used to treat the symptoms of herpes zoster (also known as shingles), a herpes virus infection of the skin; it is also used to treat and prevent genital herpes infect
ions. In your body, Valtrex becomes the anti-herpes medicine, acyclovir. Although Valtrex will not cure shingles or genital herpes, it does help relieve the pain and discomfort and helps the sores hea
l faster.
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Possible Side Effect
Although side effects from Valtrex are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- headache
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- diarrhea or loose stools
- constipation
If you experience any of the following side effects, call your doctor immediately:
- rash
- itching
- confusion
- ye
llowness of the skin or eyes
- fever
- blood in the urine
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Precautions while Using this Medicine
The effects of Valtrex during pregnancy and breastfeeding have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. If you are nursing and need
to use Valtrex, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding while using the medication.
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How should you take this medication?
If you are taking Valtrex for shingles, you should start using it as soon as possible after your doctor has made a diagnosis. It's best to see a doctor and start the drug within 48 hours of first noti
cing the rash. If you wait more than 72 hours after you first get a herpes zoster rash, the medication may not be effective.
If you are using Valtrex for genital herpes, begin taking it at t
he first sign of an attack. The medication may not be effective if you wait longer than 72 hours after the first attack or 24 hours after a later attack.
If you are taking Valtrex for cold s
ores, you should start using it at the earliest signs of infection, such as tingling, itching, or burning.
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Overdosage
When taken by people with kidney disorders, excessive doses of Valtrex have been known to cause psychological problems and kidney failure. If you suspect an overdose, check with your doctor immediatel
y.
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Possible food and drug interactions
If you are taking Valtrex with certain other drugs, the effect of either drug could be increased, decreased, or altered. Check with your doctor before combining Valtrex with cimetidine (Tagamet) and/o
r probenecid (Benemid).
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