Valtrex

The active ingredient in Valtrex is valacyclovir hydrochloride. Valtrex is an antiviral drug that gets absorbed into your body. Once injected, valacyclovir gets converted into acyclovir by intestinal and hepatic (liver) metabolism. The bioavailability of acyclovir from valaciclovir is higher than in other medications, making Valtrex a good option to battle your viral condition.

It works by inhibiting the viral DNA polymerase, essentially stopping the varicella-zoster virus and herpes simplex virus’ DNA from replicating.

By stopping the growth and spread of the herpes virus, Valtrex helps to reduce the severity and duration of outbreaks allowing individuals to experience longer periods of remission. It also helps to alleviate the associated symptoms such as pain, itching, and discomfort.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Valtrex. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Valtrex:

• Valtrex is best used if started at the first sign of an infection, such as active signs of blisters, burning, and tingling. Start the medication as soon as you are prescribed to fight the infection and to stop the symptoms you are experiencing.
• There is a potential for kidney problems, so make sure you drink enough fluids throughout the day to stay hydrated.
• You can take Valtrex with or without food. If you are taking it without food, and it is upsetting your stomach, try taking Valtrex with food. If you’re unable to swallow the tablet whole, it is okay if you split the pill down the middle on the score line. Do not split the pill if there is no line.
• There is an oral suspension (liquid) option if swallowing even half of the pill is challenging for you.
• Even if you start to feel better, take the whole treatment as prescribed by your doctor. If you stop taking it too soon, your infection may come back and be harder to treat.
• It is still recommended that you use condoms during sexual activity for added protection. It is also recommended that you refrain from sexual contact if your partner or you have symptoms or any signs of an outbreak.
• If you miss a dose, do not take two doses at once. Instead, take the missed dose as soon as you can on the same day. Take the next dose the next day at your normal schedule.

If taking the oral suspension method:

• Shake the bottle well before using it. Use only the dose cup or syringe that the pharmacy gives you to measure your dosage so that it is accurate. Do not use anything that is not the measuring cup provided.
• Once the medication is made for you at the pharmacy, it can be refrigerated for up to 28 days. After those 28 days have passed, even if there is medication that remains, you should throw the medication bottle away.

The most common side effects of Valtrex include:

• Headache
• General tiredness and weakness
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Fever
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Menstrual cramps
• Joint pain
• Runny nose or sore throat

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Valtrex. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Serious renal (kidney) impairment. Symptoms could include:
• Stomach pain
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, feet
• Urinating less
• Unexplained weight gain
• Blood clotting problems. Symptoms could include:
• Blood in urine
• Less urine output
• Confusion
• Headache
• Fever
• Bleeding in your skin
• Serious allergic reaction. Symptoms could include:
• Swelling of your lips, face, throat, or tongue
• Trouble breathing
• Confusion, agitation, and other, general nervous system-related problems.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Valtrex. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Valtrex, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• AIDS or HIV
• Kidney disease
• Had a kidney transplant
• Had a bone marrow transplant
• Immune system problems

Hypersensitivity to valacyclovir, acyclovir, or any ingredient of the formulation.

Valtrex typically starts working within 24 to 48 hours after the first dose, with noticeable symptom improvement shortly thereafter. For conditions like cold sores or genital herpes outbreaks, the earlier it’s taken after symptom onset, the more effective it is. Full healing may take several days, but taking it as directed helps speed recovery and reduce your symptoms.

When Valtrex is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter (nonprescription) medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions.

Currently, there are no medications that are known to significantly interact with Valtrex. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking.

Valtrex comes as a film-coated tablet as well as an oral suspension. The dosage of Valtrex prescribed by your healthcare provider will depend on the condition being treated and your individual response to the medication. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and administration guidelines carefully to ensure optimal results.

For the treatment of cold sores, the recommended dose of Valtrex for adults and children 12 years of age and older is usually 2 grams twice daily for one day. It is most effective when taken at the first sign of a cold sore, such as tingling or itching.

For the treatment of genital herpes in adults, the recommended dose of Valtrex is usually 1 gram twice daily for 10 days. In some cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe a lower maintenance dose to be taken daily to help prevent future outbreaks.

For shingles, the typical dose is 1 gram by mouth 3 times daily for 7 days.

For chickenpox, the typical dose for children is 20 mg/kg by mouth 3 times daily for 5 days. The maximum recommended dose is 1 gram.

The tablet comes in the following strengths:

500 mg (unscored)

1 gram (scored)

The oral suspension comes in the following strengths:

25 mg/mL

20 mg/mL

Valtrex should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and light. You should not store it in the bathroom due to the potential moisture. Keep all medications away from pets and children.

It is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline.

There are lower-cost generics available for the brand-name Valtrex.

To stop taking Valtrex, consult your healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe and appropriate based on your treatment plan and condition. If you’re using it for a short-term condition like a herpes outbreak, simply complete the prescribed course; no tapering is needed. For long-term suppressive therapy, discuss with your doctor to understand potential risks or symptoms to monitor after discontinuation.

Talk to your doctor if you are a pregnant woman or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you. Currently, there is not a major risk to the human fetus when taking Valtrex. However, it is important that you work to prevent genital herpes, especially lesions, during your pregnancy to not pass the herpes infection on to your baby during birth.

There is research that Valtrex has the potential to pass into breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.