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Brand Name: Valtrex
Generic Name: Valacyclovir
(val ay sye' kloe veer)
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Why
is valtrex prescribed?
Valtrex
(Valacyclovir) is used to treat herpes zoster (shingles) and genital herpes. It
does not cure herpes infections but decreases pain and itching, helps sores to
heal, and prevents new ones from forming.
Valtrex is
sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more
information.
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How should valtrex be used properly?
Valacyclovir (Valtrex) comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken every 8 hours (three times a day) for 7 days to treat shingles. To treat genital herpes it is usually taken twice a day for 5 days. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take valacyclovir exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Use this medication as soon as possible after symptoms appear.
Continue to take valacyclovir even if you feel well. Do not stop taking valacyclovir without talking to your doctor.
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What special precautions should I follow when using valtrex?
Before taking valacyclovir,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir, or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially cimetidine (Tagamet), probenecid (Benemid), and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease, problems with your immune system, human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV), or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking valacyclovir, call your doctor.
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What should I do if I forget a dose of valtrex?
You should take the missed dose of valtrex just as soon as you remember to take it. Unless, it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose of your medication to make up for a missed one.
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What side effects can valtrex cause?
Although side effects from valacyclovir are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- diarrhea or loose stools
- upset stomach
- constipation
- headache
- vomiting
If you experience any of the following side effects, call your doctor immediately:
- yellowness of the skin or eyes
- blood in the urine
- confusion
- itching
- fever
- rash
» top What storage conditions are needed for valtrex?
Always keep the valtrex in the same container it came in. Make sure it is tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store this medication at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture; do not store this medication in the bathroom.
Always be sure to dispose of any medication that is no longer needed or outdated. Be sure to ask your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
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What do I do in case of emergency or an valtrex overdose?
In case of a valtrex overdose, be sure to call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim is not breathing or has collapsed, dial 911 for local emergency services.
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What other information should I know about valtrex?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to valacyclovir.
Do not have sexual intercourse when you can see the genital herpes lesions. However, genital herpes can be spread even when there are no symptoms.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the valacyclovir, call your doctor.
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This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general guidelines only; please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.
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