Valacyclovir
Valacyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus to help the body fight the infection. Valacyclovir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles (herpes zoster) in adults.
Introduction
Generic name: valacyclovir
Brand name: Valtrex
Drug class: Purine nucleosides
Storage : Store below 30°C
Uses
Herpes labialis
Genital herpes infection
Herpes zoster
Benefits
Herpes labialis, commonly known as cold sores, is a viral infection that primarily affects the lip.
Symptoms typically include a burning pain followed by small blisters or sores.
The first attack may also be accompanied by fever, sore throat, and enlarged lymph nodes.
Valcivir 1000 Tablet can speed up the healing of herpes labialis and also prevent recurrence of the sores.
Dircetions for use
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Valcivir 1000 Tablet may be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time.
How it works
Valcivir 1000 Tablet is an antiviral medication. It prevents the multiplication of virus in human cells. This stops the virus from producing new viruses and clears up your infection.
Side effects
Call your doctor at once if you have:
Confusion, aggression, or you feel shaky or unsteady
Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real)
Problems with speech
A seizure (convulsions)
Kidney problems-little or no urination, painful or difficult urination, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath.
Stop taking valacyclovir and call your doctor right away if you have any of the following signs of a serious side effect that can harm red blood cells:
Fever, pale skin
Unusual bleeding (nosebleeds, bleeding gums)
Red or pink urine, little or no urination
Red spots on the skin (not related to herpes or chickenpox)
Feeling weak or tired
Stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, vomiting
Swelling in your face, hands, or feet.
Side effects may be more likely in adults who are 65 or older.
Common valacyclovir side effects may include:
Nausea, stomach pain
Headache.
Warnings
Before taking valacyclovir, tell your doctor if you have HIV/AIDS, a weak immune system, kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis), or if you have had a kidney or bone marrow transplant.
Valacyclovir can be harmful to the kidneys, and these effects are increased when it is used together with other medicines that can harm the kidneys. Tell your doctor about all other medications you are using. You may need dose adjustments or special tests when taking certain medications together with valacyclovir.
Treatment with valacyclovir should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).
Valacyclovir will not prevent the spread of genital herpes. Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people even while you are taking this medicine.
Stop taking valacyclovir and call your doctor right away if you have any signs of a serious side effect that can harm red blood cells, such as: fever, easy bruising or bleeding, red spots on the skin (not related to herpes or chickenpox), bloody diarrhea, vomiting, pale or yellowed skin, weakness, fainting, or urinating less than usual or not at all.