Valtrex, aka valacyclovir, is a prescription medication commonly used to treat cold sores and shingles. It can also be employed to treat genital herpes in patients with normal immune systems including patients with HIV. Valtrex will help to control the symptoms associated with herpes, but it will not cure the condition.
Considered an antiviral drug, valacyclovir is generally available in either 500 mg or 1 gram dosages. The patient should take the medication as prescribed. Common side effects of the medication include, but are not limited to nausea, headache, vomiting, dizziness, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, painful periods and diarrhea among others.
This is very important. Valtrex does not prevent the spread of genital lesions. You can infect others while on the medication. To avoid spreading the virus to your sexual partners, you should continue to use latex condoms and avoid letting infected areas come into contact with others. Wash hands frequently. If you are pregnant, do your best to clear up your any genital lesions prior to giving birth. Herpes can be passed on to a newborn during a natural childbirth.
Before taking valacyclovir, you should provide your doctor with the following information:
- A list of all medications you are taking including prescription, over the counter and herbal/dietary supplements
- Other conditions you have including kidney problems, medical procedures especially kidney and/or bone marrow transplants
- Family medical history
- Allergy and other drug interactions, if known
- Whether or not you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant while taking the medication or are breast-feeding or plan to breast-feed a baby.
In some instances, very serious side effects or interactions can occur while a patient is on Valtrex. Please contact your doctor or seek immediate medical assistance if any of the following occur:
- Seizure,
- Mental/mood changes (agitation, hallucination),
- Confusion,
- Speech problems,
- Shakiness,
- Unsteady movements,
- Vision changes,
- Loss of consciousness,
- Signs of infection,
- Fever,
- Persistent sore throat,
- Rash,
- Itchiness,
- Swelling,
- Severe dizziness,
- Trouble breathing, etc.
If you miss a dose, please do not double up next time. If you suspect an overdose, go to an emergency room immediately. Overdose symptoms may include urinating less than usual or NOT at all.
