Valtrex Information:
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 Valtrex 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.
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