Generic Name: Valacyclovir [val-a-SYE-kloe-veer]
Drug Class: Purine Nucleosides

Uses:

Valacyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including:

• Genital herpes
• Cold sores
• Shingles (herpes zoster) in adults

It is also used to treat cold sores in children aged 12 years and older and chickenpox in children aged 2 years and older. Valacyclovir helps to slow the growth and spread of the herpes virus but does not cure herpes or prevent the virus from spreading to others.

Warnings:

• Kidney Health: Valacyclovir can harm the kidneys, especially when used with other kidney-affecting medications. Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, are on dialysis, or have had a kidney or bone marrow transplant.
• Infection Spread: The medication does not prevent the spread of genital herpes. Herpes infections are contagious, and you can still infect others while on this medication.
• Serious Side Effects: Stop taking valacyclovir and contact your doctor immediately if you experience signs of serious side effects affecting red blood cells such as fever, easy bruising or bleeding, red spots on the skin, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, pale or yellowed skin, weakness, fainting, or reduced urination.

Before Taking Valacyclovir:

• Allergies: Do not use if you are allergic to valacyclovir or acyclovir.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have HIV/AIDS, a weakened immune system, kidney disease, or a history of kidney or bone marrow transplants.
• Pregnancy: It is unknown if valacyclovir will harm an unborn baby. If you have genital herpes, it is crucial to manage symptoms to avoid transmission to your baby during childbirth.
• Breastfeeding: Valacyclovir can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Consult your doctor if breastfeeding.

How to Take Valacyclovir:

• Dosage: Follow your prescription instructions carefully. Start taking valacyclovir as soon as possible after symptoms appear. Do not take more or less than prescribed.
• Duration: Complete the full course of medication even if symptoms improve.
• Administration: Valacyclovir can be taken with or without food.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help protect your kidneys.
• Lesion Care: Keep herpes lesions clean and dry. Wear loose clothing to avoid irritation.

Missed Dose:

• If Missed: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip it if it’s almost time for the next dose. Do not double up on doses.

Overdose:

• Emergency: Seek immediate medical attention or call Poison Help if an overdose is suspected.

What to Avoid:

• Transmission: Valacyclovir does not prevent the spread of genital herpes. Avoid sexual intercourse or use a latex condom to reduce the risk of spreading the virus. Avoid touching infected areas and then touching your eyes. Wash hands frequently.

Side Effects:

• Serious Side Effects: Call your doctor immediately if you experience confusion, aggression, hallucinations, seizures, kidney issues (e.g., reduced urination, swelling), or signs of harm to red blood cells (e.g., fever, unusual bleeding, red or pink urine).
• Common Side Effects: Nausea, stomach pain, headache.
• Age Considerations: Older adults may be more prone to side effects.

Drug Interactions:

Valacyclovir can interact with other medications, especially those affecting the kidneys. Inform your healthcare provider about all current medications, including antivirals, chemotherapy, antibiotics, medications for bowel disorders, high blood pressure, organ transplant rejection, osteoporosis, and pain or arthritis medicines (e.g., Advil, Motrin, Aleve).

Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and information about side effects or interactions.

Note: 

The brand name displayed above is specific to this product. Brand names can vary depending on the manufacturer.