VALTREX DRUG INFO
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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