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Valtrex how to take


Valacyclovir: MedlinePlus Drug Information

pronounced as (val ay sye' kloe veer)

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  • Why is this medication prescribed?
  • How should this medicine be used?
  • What special precautions should I follow?
  • What should I do if I forget a dose?
  • What side effects can this medication cause?
  • What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?
  • In case of emergency/overdose
  • What other information should I know?
  • Brand names

Valacyclovir is used to treat herpes zoster (shingles) and genital herpes. It does not cure herpes infections but decreases pain and itching, helps sores to heal, and prevents new ones from forming.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Valacyclovir comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken every 8 hours (three times a day) for 7 days to treat shingles. To treat genital herpes it is usually taken twice a day for 5 days. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take valacyclovir exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Use this medication as soon as possible after symptoms appear.

Continue to take valacyclovir even if you feel well. Do not stop taking valacyclovir without talking to your doctor.

Before taking valacyclovir,

  • tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir, or any other drugs.
  • tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially cimetidine (Tagamet), probenecid (Benemid), and vitamins.
  • tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease, problems with your immune system, human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV), or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
  • tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking valacyclovir, call your doctor.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it, and take any remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Valacyclovir may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

  • headache
  • upset stomach
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea or loose stools
  • constipation

If you experience any of the following side effects, call your doctor immediately:

  • rash
  • itching
  • confusion
  • yellowness of the skin or eyes
  • fever
  • blood in the urine

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online (http://www. fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch) or by phone (1-800-332-1088).

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).

It is important to keep all medication out of sight and reach of children as many containers (such as weekly pill minders and those for eye drops, creams, patches, and inhalers) are not child-resistant and young children can open them easily. To protect young children from poisoning, always lock safety caps and immediately place the medication in a safe location – one that is up and away and out of their sight and reach. http://www.upandaway.org

Unneeded medications should be disposed of in special ways to ensure that pets, children, and other people cannot consume them. However, you should not flush this medication down the toilet. Instead, the best way to dispose of your medication is through a medicine take-back program. Talk to your pharmacist or contact your local garbage/recycling department to learn about take-back programs in your community. See the FDA's Safe Disposal of Medicines website (http://goo.gl/c4Rm4p) for more information if you do not have access to a take-back program.

In case of overdose, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. Information is also available online at https://www.poisonhelp.org/help. If the victim has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be awakened, immediately call emergency services at 911.

  • Valtrex®
Last Revised - 02/15/2018

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What You Want to Know

Introduction

Cold sores are painful and oozing, and they always seem to appear before that wedding or class reunion. Also called fever blisters, the small, fluid-filled lesions typically form near or on your lips and can cause symptoms such as tingling, itching, or burning.

They’re caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are two types of herpes virus. Cold sores are typically caused by type 1 virus (HSV-1). But in some cases, HSV-1 can cause sores on the genitals and type 2 virus (HSV-2) can cause sores on the mouth.

There’s no cure for cold sores. But, because they’re caused by a virus, they can be treated with antiviral medications. These include the prescription medication Valtrex.

Valtrex, which contains the active ingredient valacyclovir, can help your cold sores clear up faster. It can also reduce the number of cold sores you get. Read on to learn how Valtrex works and how to use it to treat your cold sores.

Cold sores typically start to heal on their own within about four to six days. Although, the first cold sore you get will likely last longer.

Most people don’t require treatment for their cold sores, but, in some cases, a doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication such as Valtrex. This may be because you get cold sores often or if you’re at high risk of serious complications, such as from a weakened immune system.

To treat a cold sore, you take Valtrex on the day you notice a cold sore forming. Valtrex works by preventing the herpes virus from growing and spreading.

Your doctor may also prescribe Valtrex to help prevent future cold sores, which is an off-label use. In that case, you and your doctor would work together to create the best treatment plan for you.

Valtrex is an oral caplet. It comes in 500-milligram and 1-gram strengths. It’s available as a brand-name product as well as a generic medication (valacyclovir). The generic product is an oral tablet which comes in the same strengths.

For adults and children 12 years and older

The recommended dosage is 2 grams twice daily, taken 12 hours apart, for one day. Valtrex should be started at the earliest signs of a cold sore.

For children 11 years and younger

Valtrex is not recommended for treating cold sores in children of this age group. But it can be used to treat chickenpox in children ages 2 years and older.

In one 2003 study, people who took Valtrex had shorter cold sore episodes by about one day compared to people who didn’t take Valtrex at all. Most people in the study took Valtrex within two hours of noticing their first cold sore symptoms.

  • Take Valtrex at the first sign of a cold sore.
  • You can take it with or without food.
  • Don’t take more than the prescribed number of caplets each day.
  • If your child can’t swallow caplets, ask your pharmacist to make the caplets into an oral suspension (liquid).
  • Be sure to drink lots of water. Since your kidneys help remove the metabolized drug from your body, it’s important to stay hydrated to lower the risk of serious side effects, such as kidney damage.

The more common side effects of Valtrex include:

  • headache
  • dizziness
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • stomach pain

The serious side effects of Valtrex can include:

Valtrex may not be the best choice for certain people.

People with kidney damage or kidney failure may need a lower dosage of Valtrex. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have kidney problems before you start taking the drug.

If you’ve ever had an allergic or other serious reaction to Valtrex, Zovirax (acyclovir), or the ingredients in them, do not take Valtrex without talking to your doctor first.

Valtrex is not the only medication used to treat cold sores. Other medications include:

  • Zovirax (acyclovir)
  • Denavir (penciclovir)

Zovirax is an oral medication and it also comes in cream form. Denavir is a topical cream.

There are also natural treatments that may help ease symptoms of a cold sore during an outbreak.

For more information about Valtrex, talk with your doctor. Feel free to review this article with them and ask any questions you have, like:

  • Is it important that I take medication to prevent cold sores?
  • Are there drug-free ways to help avoid cold sores?
  • Are there over-the-counter drug options that I could consider?

Together, you and your doctor can decide if Valtrex or another medication or treatment is a good choice to treat your cold sores. For more information, read about the seven best cold sore remedies.

Q:

Are cold sores contagious?

Anonymous patient

A:

Yes. They spread from person-to-person contact, such as kissing. You can pass cold sores to another person even when the sores are not visible.

Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

90,000 Valtreks - 20 reviews and customer rating

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Valtrex tablets 500 mg 42 pcs.

from 4427 ₽

4.4 / 5

Based on 20 customer ratings

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 10 pcs.

What can I say about this product? As long as you drink it, the effect is there. But as soon as you stop, literally after 2 weeks the problems reappear. The tool is good, but ineffective. nine0003

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 42 pcs.

from 4427 ₽

A couple of days before the wedding, I got herpes. It was terrible, my mood was badly spoiled. I just didn't want to be photographed. Without hesitation, I bought and started taking this drug. And the interesting thing is that he helped me. And very quickly. After using it for herpes, I only have unpleasant memories.

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 10 pcs.

This remedy helped my husband get rid of skin herpes. At first, we thought it was acne, we treated it with another remedy, but then we had to switch to this drug. The effect of its use was If they started using it right away, the improvements would have been noticed earlier. We are glad that we got acquainted with this wonderful drug. The money was not wasted. nine0003

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 10 pcs.

Later, after testing, I was diagnosed with herpes. The gynecologist prescribed this drug. I drank it in a course. A year later, she was able to become pregnant again and give birth to a healthy child. I forgot about herpes.

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 42 pcs.

from 4427 ₽

I started taking this remedy on the advice of my family doctor. Within a day, I noticed how the pain began to pass. The drug is very easy to drink. It tastes good, and for me it was the most important thing. The effect of his reception was. But you can use it only after consulting a doctor. nine0003

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 42 pcs.

from 4427 ₽

This drug helped me get rid of genital herpes. After the first application, all symptoms disappeared. The nice thing is that the tool has a convenient dosing regimen. I didn't experience any side effects while using it. Although there were other similar drugs.

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 42 pcs.

from 4427 ₽

For a long time I was worried about herpes. Other antiviral pills and ointments did not help me. Used this drug for a course. After using it, I completely forgot about herpes. The effect of the use of this tool was enough for me for 3 years. During this time, I have never had a relapse. nine0003

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 42 pcs.

from 4427 ₽

I often get herpes on my lips, and in the off-season it doesn't even disappear. I used various means, both expensive and cheap, but they were all ineffective. On the advice of a doctor, I tried this drug. It is expensive, but its effect is not as fast as that of others. The tool helped me, but I will not recommend it. Everything is individual here.

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 10 pcs.

A good antiviral drug that helps get rid of herpes. I took his course. The effect of his reception was. The price of the drug, of course, is a bit high, but its quality is excellent. Of all the medications I have used in the past, this has been the most effective. nine0003

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 42 pcs.

from 4427 ₽

I suffer from herpes most of my life. I have tried many different medicines. I purchased this product on the advice of my doctor. Although I really didn’t want to, because. it is expensive. Herpes has not returned to me for six months. It's just some kind of holiday. Interestingly, acne is no longer necessary to treat. This tool helps to get rid of any rubbish. Effective.

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 10 pcs.

I have been trying to get rid of herpes for a long time. At first I used only ointments, and then I had to include tablets in my treatment. This drug was prescribed to me by a doctor. At first, I did not want to buy it, because. it is expensive and I thought that it is also ineffective. But I bought it and I don't regret it. The tool really helped me. And now this is the best drug of those that I have previously tried. Now I only use them. nine0003

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 10 pcs.

This is a modern antiviral drug. Because of the tumor, my temperature kept at a high level every day. Has handed over many different analyses. I was told that I am a carrier of several types of the virus. The doctor gave me one drug. But after retesting, the changes were minimal. I had to take this drug. It is expensive, but the effect is there. The indicators improved, the temperature subsided.

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 42 pcs. nine0003

from 4427 ₽

I got chicken pox from my son. The symptoms were simply indescribable, although outwardly they were not noticeable. Moreover, against the background of chickenpox, I even developed pneumonia. The drug coped with my illness just with a bang. The price for it is unreasonably high, and there are a lot of side effects. But the good thing is that all this side effect has bypassed me. But it was scary to take it.

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 10 pcs.

I do not recommend this drug to anyone. Maybe he helps well, but the side effects after him are just terrible. I took it for 2 weeks, so after it I had such bleeding that I almost ended up in the hospital. I had to solder off with hemostatic. I do not recommend this drug to anyone. nine0003

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 42 pcs.

from 4427 ₽

I advise everyone who has been prescribed this drug not to think, but to run and buy it. The drug fully justifies its cost. I have used it several times. For several months now, herpes has not bothered me. An excellent tool.

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 42 pcs.

from 4427 ₽

I met this drug quite by accident. The drug is working. He heals. After him, the herpes disappeared, the lip returned to its original size. Some wrote that their temperature rose, but I got around it. The tool helped me. I recommend. nine0003

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 10 pcs.

The product helped me quickly get rid of herpes. It is easy to take, side effects are rare. However, it didn't work for my husband. Strangely, it somehow affects everyone in completely different ways.

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 42 pcs.

from 4427 ₽

This is a very effective drug that helps get rid of herpes. I have a weak immune system. With every cold I get herpes. Ointments helped me before, but only for a short period of time. After using this drug, I simply forgot about my illness. Now I use it for prevention. I recommend the drug. nine0003

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 10 pcs.

Valtrex is an excellent drug that helps to get rid of a viral infection and papillomavirus. It really works and the effect of it lasts for a long time. It is convenient to take it, and you do not need to drink it for a long time. I am glad that I got acquainted with such an effective and inexpensive drug. Now I only use them.

Valtrex tablets 500 mg 42 pcs.

from 4427 ₽

The drug is good, but it is very expensive. For such a price, you can find a drug that is better and more effective. I won't recommend him to anyone. Next time I won't buy it myself. nine0003

  • Valtrex reviews
  • Should I buy Valtrex?
  • 20 reviews for Valtrex from buyers Megapteka.ru

Valtrex tablets for herpes - composition, method of application, side effects, analogue

Acyclovir, which is part of the drug, is a powerful antiviral drug. It is embedded in the DNA of the virus and infects its cells, preventing them from multiplying. Valtrex is used to treat human herpes type 6, herpes simplex types 1 and 2, chickenpox, cytomegalovirus, and Epstein-Barr virus. The drug is available in tablet form. nine0003

Valtrex - Composition

Tablets are available in blisters of 10 pieces and are packed in a box. The drug is completely absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and excreted from the body with the help of the kidneys. This process is very fast. The medicine Valtrex contains one active ingredient - Valaciclovir, as well as many additional substances:

  • magnesium stearate;
  • microcrystalline cellulose;
  • colloidal silicon;
  • povidone; nine0128
  • crospovidone;
  • dye white;
  • carnauba wax;
  • ink.

Valtrex - indications for use

Valtrex has indications for both adults and children:

  1. Treatment of herpes zoster. The drug reduces the duration of the disease and eliminates pain.
  2. Treatment of infectious diseases caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) in the mucous membranes and skin. nine0128
  3. Prevention of the onset of symptoms of herpes, including genital.
  4. Prevention of transmission of genital herpes from one sexual partner to another, in combination with conventional methods of contraception.
  5. Valtrex or acyclovir is used to prevent and treat cytomegalovirus (CMV).
  6. Prevention of acute transplant rejection (in cases where the patient had a kidney transplant), as well as all herpes virus infections after organ transplantation. nine0128
  7. In children, it is used to relieve symptoms of chickenpox, relieve irritation and reduce pain.

Valtrex - contraindications

Valtrex has a number of contraindications:

  • hypersensitivity to one or more components of the tablets.
  • children under 12 years of age, in cases where there was an organ transplant.
  • children under 18 years of age are not recommended to take the drug in all other cases, except for organ transplantation. nine0128
  • diseases of the liver and kidneys at any stage.
  • HIV infection with a pronounced clinical picture, Valtrex tablets should not be used.

Valtrex - application

Valtrex - dosage:

  • for herpes zoster, 2 tablets at a dosage of 500 mg are prescribed, 3 times a day.
  • with HSV 1 tablet, 2 times a day.
  • for CMV, children over 12 years of age and adults, 4 doses (2 g) 4 times a day are prescribed, Valtrex tablets should be started immediately after an organ transplant. nine0128

In elderly patients, when using the drug, it is recommended to consume as much liquid as possible. Thus, dehydration can be avoided. For older people, the herpes medicine Valtrex needs to be adjusted in dosage due to possible malfunctions of the kidneys. If the dosage is too high, Valtrex tablets can cause neurological complications. It is important to note that the drug reduces the reaction rate and concentration, therefore, when using it, it is better not to drive a car or operate other mechanisms. nine0003

Valtrex for herpes

Valtrex for herpes is often used and really effective. The drug has low toxicity and, due to the enzyme found in herpes viruses, acts selectively and gives an excellent effect. When ingested, the main active ingredient, acyclovir, is released from the drug. He begins to implant in the DNA of the virus and destroys it from the inside. It has no effect on human DNA.

Valtrex tablets are used to treat:

  • herpes type 1 and 2;
  • herpes type 6.

Valtrex for chickenpox

Valtrex for chickenpox in adults should be started at the first manifestations of the disease. Before the appearance of a clear rash, the drug is prescribed 1 tablet up to 2 times a day. After the rash appears - 2 tablets up to 2 times a day. For children, the scheme is different: the daily dose for a child should not exceed 1 gram of the drug (2 tablets). Valtrex tablets are prescribed as maintenance therapy, and it does not cancel the treatment and drying of the ulcers. nine0003

Valtrex for CMV

Treatment for cytomegalovirus involves a holistic approach. Which method will be effective here, only the doctor can determine on a personal examination of the patient. With CMV, along with Valtrex, it is necessary to take drugs that support immunity. The drug is used after organ transplantation, and therapy should be started as early as possible. How to take Valtrex for CMV: 2 g (4 tablets), up to 4 times a day. The exact dosage should be determined by the attending physician. nine0003

Valtrex for HPV

Valtrex treats HPV, but only if there is a herpes virus in the body as a concomitant disease. In this case, the drug will begin to act according to the usual pattern and will destroy all viruses at once. If there is no herpetic component in the body, the medicine will have a therapeutic effect. Most HPV patients complain of headaches and vomiting. These are side effects of the drug, and when it is canceled, they disappear.

Valtrex for mononucleosis

Valtrex herpes tablets are prescribed for mononucleosis, but they only help if there is a herpes virus in the body. The drug helps to restore immunity and does not allow auto-aggressive viruses into the body. The medicine is prescribed by the attending physician, and the scheme for taking it is similar to the scheme for the treatment of herpes. It is used along with the full treatment of the disease.

How to take Valtrex for prevention?

Valtrex - method of application for the prevention of diseases:

  1. For prophylaxis in case of contact with a patient with herpes, 1 tablet 1-2 times a day is prescribed. The course of treatment is from 3 to 5 days.
  2. For the prevention of CMV, children and adults are prescribed 4 tablets (2 g) up to 4 times a day. The sooner therapy is started after an organ transplant, the greater the chance of a favorable outcome.
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