Information About Valtrex
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.
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