USES: Valacyclovir is used to treat shingles (herpes zoster), cold sores (herpes labialis). It is also used to treat genital herpes. This medication helps control symptoms, but does not cure the disease. This is also known as suppressive therapy. Valacyclovir is an antiviral.
Valtrex is currently being prescribed to people with a normal or healthy immune system. Valtrex reduces the chance of reoccurrence. Valtrex is an anti-viral drug that is believed to suppress the herpes virus and reduce the number of incidences. Valtrex is used to reduce the amount of time for an outbreak if taken soon enough. It is not known if Valtrex prevents the spread of the herpes virus.
How should I take Valtrex?
If you are taking Valtrex for shingles, you should start using it as soon as possible after a diagnosis has been made . It's best to see a doctor and start the drug within 48 hours after first noticing the rash. The medication may not be effective if you wait more than 72 hours after you first get a herpes zoster rash.
If you are using Valtrex to treat genital herpes, begin taking it at the first sign of an attack. Valtrex 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 to treat cold sores, you should start using it at the earliest signs of infection, such as itching, tingling, or burning. Valtrex might not work if you wait until the cold sore develops.
You may take Valtrex with or without food.
Store Valtrex at room temperature.
If you miss a dose, take Valtrex as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.
Valtrex Side Effects: Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. But some of them may occur such as fatigue, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting or dizziness. Notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly if any of these effects persist or worsen. Remember that your doctor has prescribed Valtrex because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of any side effects. Report your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: loss of consciousness, signs of other infections (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), seizures, change in the amount of urine, unusual fever, easy bruising/bleeding, .. Valtrex may rarely cause a blood disorder (thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura) or a severe kidney problem. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: swelling, rash, itching, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. Though serious allergic reaction to Valtrex is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
