Other Drugs 
Valtrex
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Drug Category: Herpes
Other Similar Drugs: Acyclovir Valtrex Famvir
In the U.S.
- Valtrex
In Canada
- Valtrex
Description
Valacyclovir (val-ay-SYE-kloe-veer) is used to treat the symptoms of herpes zoster (also known as shingles), a herpes virus infection of the skin; it is also used to treat and prevent genital herpes infections. In your body, valacyclovir becomes the anti-herpes medicine, acyclovir. Although valacyclovir will not cure shingles or genital herpes, it does help relieve the pain and discomfort and helps the sores heal faster.
Valacyclovir is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:
- Tablets (U.S. and Canada)
Proper Use of VALTREX
Valacyclovir works best if it is used within 48 hours after the first symptoms of shingles or genital herpes (for example, pain, burning, or blisters) begin to appear. For recurrent outbreaks of genital herpes, valacyclovir works best if it is used within 24 hours after the symptoms begin to appear.
Valacyclovir may be taken with meals.
Keep taking valacyclovir for the full time of treatment , even if your symptoms begin to clear up after a few days. Do not miss any doses. However, do not use VALTREX more often or for a longer time than your doctor ordered.
Dosing - The dose of valacyclovir will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of valacyclovir. Your dose may be different if you have kidney disease. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.
- For oral dosage form (tablets):
- For treatment of genital herpes, first outbreak:
- Adults1 gram two times a day for ten days.
- ChildrenUse and dose must be determined by your doctor.
- For treatment of genital herpes, recurrent outbreaks:
- Adults500 milligrams (mg) two times a day for three days.
- ChildrenUse and dose must be determined by your doctor.
- To prevent recurrent outbreaks of genital herpes:
- Adults500 mg or 1 gram once a day.
- ChildrenUse and dose must be determined by your doctor.
- For treatment of shingles:
- Adults1 gram three times a day for seven days.
- ChildrenUse and dose must be determined by your doctor.
- For treatment of genital herpes, first outbreak:
Missed dose - If you miss a dose of VALTREX, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
Storage - To store VALTREX:
- Keep out of the reach of children.
- Store away from heat and direct light.
- Do not store the tablets in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.
- Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.
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.