Valacyclovir / Valaciclovir

Uses	Viral infection- Herpes
Therapy	Anti-Herpes
Side Effects	Headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort

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Molecule Description

Valacyclovir / Valaciclovir is 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.

Uses

Valacyclovir / Valaciclovir is useful in treating viral infections like cold sores, shingles (Herpes zoster infection), genital herpes (pain and blisters in private parts), etc.

Contraindications

When should one not use Valacyclovir / Valaciclovir

If you are allergic to valaciclovir or any other ingredients of Valacyclovir / Valaciclovir.
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

Common side effects of this drug are:

Headache
Dizziness
Nausea
Vomiting
Stomach discomfort
Diarrhoea
Skin rashes
Light sensitivity

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

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

Breast Feeding

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

Driving

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

Alcohol

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 Valacyclovir / Valaciclovir. Immediately contact your doctor or visit the nearest hospital.
You have genital herpes (pain and blisters in private parts) or are taking Valacyclovir / Valaciclovir 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.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Valacyclovir / Valaciclovir works by killing or stopping the growth of the virus in the body, thus stopping the spread of infection and helps you heal faster.

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Valacyclovir / Valaciclovir 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.

Interactions with food items

Valacyclovir / Valaciclovir can be taken with or without food.

Dosage

Overdose

An overdose of Valacyclovir / Valaciclovir 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 Valacyclovir / Valaciclovir, 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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Valacyclovir / Valaciclovir should be taken as directed by your doctor, with a glass of water, with or without food.

The dose and duration of Valacyclovir / Valaciclovir 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.

Valacyclovir / Valaciclovir 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.

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