Valtrex (Valacyclovir)

Do's

• The dosage and length of treatment with Valtrex are determined based on the type of infection, medical condition, and response to treatment. For treating chickenpox in children, the dosage is also based on weight.
• Take the medication as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not change the dose, skip any doses, or stop the medication early without your healthcare provider's approval.
• Valtrex works best when started at the first sign of an outbreak, as directed by your healthcare provider. It may not work as well if treatment is delayed. For shingles, chickenpox, cold sores, or genital herpes, start taking Valtrex at the first symptom or as soon as possible after the rash appears, or at the first sign of tingling, itching, or burning.
• Take Valtrex by mouth with or without food as directed by your healthcare provider. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication to lower the chance of side effects.
• The medication should be taken at evenly spaced intervals, and taken at the same time(s) each day to maintain a constant level of the medicine in the body.
• If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. However, do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose. Continue with the regular dosing schedule and do not skip any doses.
• Even if the infection symptoms have cleared up, continue taking Valtrex until the full prescribed amount is finished, unless the doctor advises otherwise.
• Follow these guidelines and consult a healthcare provider for any questions or concerns regarding the dosage and administration of Valtrex.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Headache

Serious Side Effects:

• Kidney failure
• Nervous system problems
• Swelling in the face, hands, or feet
• Shaky movements
• Confusion
• Speech problems
• Hallucinations
• Seizures
• Coma

Consult a healthcare provider for any questions or concerns regarding the potential side effects of Valtrex, as well as for personalized medical advice and guidance.

Before taking any drug, including Valtrex, consult a healthcare provider to ensure they are safe and appropriate to use, as well as to address any potential drug interactions, adverse effects, or changes in diet or treatment plans.

Elderly patients are more likely to have reduced renal function and may require dose reduction. They are also more likely to experience renal or central nervous system adverse events. Therefore, caution is advised when administering Valtrex to elderly individuals.

Individuals with allergies to valacyclovir, acyclovir, or any other allergies should inform their healthcare provider before using Valtrex. The product may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems.

Valtrex may rarely cause dizziness, and individuals should be cautious when engaging in activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.

The information provided here is not exhaustive, and individuals should refer to the patient information leaflet and consult a healthcare provider for comprehensive details on the warnings and precautions associated with Valtrex.