Valacyclovir

Prescription Medication Information

This page provides information for Valacyclovir 500 mg tablets. Valacyclovir is a popular antiviral drug used to treat or manage diseases caused by specific types of viruses. It is used to treat cold sores that usually occur around the mouth and shingles mainly caused by herpes zoster. Valacyclovir is also used to manage genital herpes outbreaks and can be used to minimize the frequency rate, especially for individuals who experience frequent outbreaks.

How Valacyclovir Works

Valacyclovir functions by terminating the growth of certain viruses. However, it does not get rid of the viruses totally. The viruses, for example, the herpes virus, continue to reside in the body causing outbreaks when favorable conditions are met. Valacyclovir minimizes the duration or the severity of the outbreaks. It aids in healing the sores rapidly, preventing new sores from emerging and forming, as well as reducing pain or any associated itch. The drug may also assist in reducing the duration of the pain that occurs after sores have healed.

Product Specifications

• Strength: 500 mg per tablet
• Manufacturer: Camber Pharmaceuticals
• Form: Oral Tablet
• Maximum Doses: 30 per prescription
• Prescribing Service: Healthymale.com

How to Use This Drug

Valacyclovir is taken orally as a tablet. For treating shingles, it is typically taken every eight hours (three times a day) for a full week (seven days). For treating genital herpes, it is usually taken two times a day (morning and night) for five days. It is always recommended to use this medication as soon as you notice any symptoms. It is also recommended to continue taking valacyclovir even after you start feeling well. Do not discontinue taking the medication without consulting your doctor first.

Important Safety Information

• Disease Transmission: Valacyclovir treats outbreaks of genital herpes but does not get rid of the virus itself. The medication will not stop the spread of the virus. You can still infect other people even when you are on the drug because herpes infections are quite contagious.
• Prevention of Spread: To prevent the spread of genital herpes, use protection, particularly a latex condom, during sexual intercourse. Keep infected areas from coming into contact with other people. Wash your hands thoroughly after touching an infected area to prevent passing the virus to others.
• Geriatric Use: While studies have not found any geriatric-specific issues, elderly patients are more susceptible to kidney diseases. In such cases, the valacyclovir dose may require adjustment.
• Allergic Reactions: If you have had an allergic reaction to this medication, inform your doctor. Also disclose any other drug allergies or allergies to foods, preservatives, or dyes.

Potential Side Effects

Consult your doctor if the following become severe:

• Headache
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Diarrhea

• Confusion
• Fever
• Itching
• Yellowness of the eyes or skin
• Rash
• Blood in urine

Drug Interactions

Before taking valacyclovir, inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any of the following medications, as they may enhance the risk of side effects or require dosage adjustments: Foscarnet, Tolvaptan, Fosphenytoin, Valproic Acid, or Phenytoin.