Valtrex Tablet

Valtrex Tablet contains Valaciclovir (or Valacyclovir) an antiviral medicine. It is used to treat viral infections like shingles, cold sores and genital herpes. Take this medicine exactly as directed by the doctor.

You may experience side effects like headache, nausea, dizziness and sensitivity to light. These side effects usually go away with time, but if you feel your condition deteriorates, you should consult your doctor or visit the hospital. While on treatment with this medicine you need to drink plenty of water.

Before using this medicine, inform the doctor about your detailed medical history.

Dosage

Overdose

An overdose of Valtrex Tablet may cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, confusion, hallucinations, agitation, lack of consciousness, kidney-related problems and coma. Seek urgent medical help if you experience any such symptoms or feel you have taken too much of this medicine.

Missed a Dose

In case you’ve missed any dose of Valtrex Tablet, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose. Avoid taking a double dose to compensate for the missed dose.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Valaciclovir in Valtrex Tablet works by killing or stopping the growth of the virus in the body, thus stopping the spread of infection and help you heal faster.

Directions for Use

• Valtrex Tablet should be taken as directed by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole with a glass of water.
• It can be taken with or without food. It is essential to take it regularly and at a fixed time.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions and do not exceed the dose of this medicine more than that recommended.

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Valtrex Tablet during pregnancy?

You should consult your doctor before using Valtrex Tablet during pregnancy as there is limited information available. Your doctor will only prescribe you this medicine if it is essential and the benefits overweigh the risks.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Valtrex Tablet while breastfeeding?

Valaciclovir passes into breast milk, hence you should be cautious while using Valtrex Tablet during breastfeeding. It is important to consult the doctor before using any medication while breastfeeding.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Valtrex Tablet?

Valtrex Tablet may cause dizziness as a side effect, hence you should either avoid or be cautious while driving a vehicle or operating machines.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Valtrex Tablet?

Although there is no known interaction with alcohol and this medicine, it is essential to consult your physician if you have a habit of drinking regularly.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

• You have problems with your liver or kidneys.
• You are above 65 years of age.
• You have a weak immune system.
• You develop flu-like symptoms, rash with fever, enlarged lymph nodes, elevated liver enzymes seen in your blood tests and an increase in eosinophilia (a type of white blood cells) after taking Valtrex Tablet. Immediately contact your doctor or visit the nearest hospital.
• You have genital herpes (pain and blisters in private parts) or are taking Valtrex Tablet to treat it, you should avoid having intercourse or use proper protective measures, so as to prevent the passing of the infection to your partner.
• You need to drink a lot of water while you are on treatment with this medicine.

Contraindications

• If you are allergic to Valaciclovir or any other ingredients of Valtrex Tablet.
• If you have previously ever developed an allergic reaction or rash followed by fever, enlarged lymph nodes, increased liver enzymes and an increase in a type of white blood cells (eosinophilia) in your blood tests after taking Valaciclovir.

Side effects

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach discomfort
• Diarrhoea
• Skin rashes
• Light sensitivity

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

• Valtrex Tablet may interact with other medicines, discuss with your doctor about all the medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are taking. Also, you should inform your doctor if you have a planned surgery or vaccination scheduled.
• Medicines like probenecid (used in treating gout), cimetidine (used in treating stomach problems like ulcers), mycophenolate mofetil (used in Crohn's disease), tenofovir (used in hepatitis B and to prevent and treat HIV/AIDS) should be used with caution along with this medicine.
• This medicine should be used with caution along with medicines that affect your kidneys like Amphotericin B, Cidofovir, Cisplatin, methotrexate, pentamidine, foscarnet, tacrolimus, etc.

Storage and disposal

• Store Valtrex Tablets in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture and heat.
• Keep it away from children and pets.
• Discard any unused medicine properly, do not flush in the toilet or throw it into the drain.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the use of Valtrex Tablet?

Valtrex Tablet is used to treat viral infections like cold sores, shingles (Herpes zoster infection), genital herpes (pain and blisters in private parts), etc.

How to take Valtrex Tablet?

Valtrex Tablet should be taken as directed by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole with a glass of water, with or without food. Do not cut, break or chew the medicine.

How long should I take Valtrex Tablet?

The dose and duration of Valtrex Tablet will depend on the cause of illness and your body's response to the treatment. Follow your doctor's instructions and do not stop taking this medicine on your own.

Is Valtrex Tablet effective?

Valtrex Tablet is effective if the correct dose is taken for the exact duration as advised by your doctor. If you stop taking the medicine before completing the treatment, your symptoms may return.