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Valtrex
(valacyclovir hydrochloride) is the only once-a-day prescription
medication proven to suppress future genital herpes outbreaks.
Valtrex works by disrupting the process by which the herpes
virus reproduces itself and spreads to other cells in the body.
There is no cure for genital herpes, and no drug has been proven
to prevent the spread of herpes to others. Use Valtrex to suppress
herpes outbreaks or to treat them when they occur.
Valtrex
is an antiviral agent used in the treatment of herpes zoster
(shingles), genital herpes and is also being used for herpes
simplex (cold sores).
Directions
Take 1 tablet 2 times daily
for acute outbreaks and 1 tablet daily as a maintenance
dose if needed. Take Valtrex by mouth as directed. Do not
skip doses or stop taking Valtrex without your doctor's
approval. Stopping therapy too soon may result in ineffective
treatment.
Side Effects
Nausea, vomiting, headache, loss of appetite,
weakness, stomach pain or dizziness may occur the first
several days as your body adjusts to Valtrex. 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 Valtrex.
Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have any kidney disease,
blood disorders or if you have any allergies. Valtrex should
be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss
the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known
if Valtrex 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
or probenecid.
Missed Dose
Try to take each dose of Valtrex at the scheduled
time. If you miss a dose of Valtrex, 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 of Valtrex
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. Keep Valtrex and all medications out of the reach
of children.
Notes
Valtrex is most effective if it is started
within 48 hours of when the rash first appears.
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