Drug Uses
Valtrex is used to treat herpes zoster (shingles), treat or suppress genital herpes in immunocompetent individuals and suppress of recurrent genital herpes in HIV infected individuals and is also used to treat cold sores (herpes labialis).

How Taken
Valtrex comes as a tablet to take in orally. The general dosage for treatment of shingles is 3 times a day with 8 hour intervals between the doses, during one week. For treatment of genital herpes it is usually taken two times a day for 5 days. To treat cold sores, Valtrex is usually taken only for one day. For best result start using Valtrex as soon as you notice first symptoms. Do not stop taking Valtrex even if you feel better, without your doctor`s approval.

Warnings/Precautions
You may require dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have a kidney disease or immune system problems. Do take Valtrex if you are allergic to acyclovir (Zovirax). Valtrex is in the FDA pregnancy category B. Which means that animal–reproduction studies have not demonstrated a fatal risk but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women, or animal–reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect (other than a decrease in fertility) that was not confirmed in controlled studies in women in the first trimester (and there is no evidence of a risk in later trimesters). It is also unknown if Valtrex passes into breast milk. Therefore, do not take Valtrex without your doctor`s approval if you are pregnant, likely to become pregnant or breastfeeding.

Missed Dose
If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the Missed Dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Possible Side Effects
Some of the Possible Side Effects are– headache, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, and dizziness. Side effects in HIV infected adults include headache, tiredness, and rash, painful periods in women, joint pain, depression, low blood cell counts. Most of these side effects are not very serious and do nor stop the patients taking Valtrex, however, you should contact your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. Problems with nervous system and kidney failure are quite rare and are usually experienced by patients who already have problems with kidneys or nervous system and elderly patients whose kidneys do not function properly due to age. Some of the symptoms of nervous system are– aggressive behavior, unsteady movement, shaky movements, confusion, speech problems, hallucinations, seizures, and coma. If problems with nervous system occur while using Valtrex, you should contact your doctor promptly. Make sure you notify your doctor if you have any kidney problems before using this medication.

Storage
Store at room temperature 15–25°C (59–77°F). Keep away from children and excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).

Overdose
If overdose is suspected seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of Valtrex overdosage are not very well known. However, overdosage symptoms of a similar medication Zovirax (acyclovir) include– seizures, hallucinations, and kidney damage (decreased urine production).

More Information
Avoid letting infected sites come into contact with other people. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for More Information. Wash your hands frequently to avoid transmission. Valtrex does not prevent the spread of genital herpes. It is recommended to use condoms during sexual activity to prevent spreading the virus to others.

Disclaimer
This is only general information, it does not cover all directions, drug integrations or precautions. You should not rely on it for any purpose, it does not contain any specific instructions for a particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information. We`re not responsible for any damage.