Valtrex is an antiviral agent that
is manufactured by Glaxo SmithKline.
This prescription drug is used to
treat herpes zoster infections or
genital herpes infections. It is also
used to prevent infections like oral
herpes, genital herpes or varicella-zoster
viruses from coming back.
These are also known as cold sores,
sexually transmitted herpes, shingles
and chicken-pox. Valtrex does not
cure herpes, but helps to heal its
sores faster and at the same times
alleviate any discomfort or pain.
This drug maybe also used to help
prevent genital herpes from being
passed on to a partner who does not
have it. At the moment generic Valtrex
caplets are not available.
The main active ingredient in Valtrex
is valacyclovir. Each tablet of Valtrex
contains 500 mg to 1 g of valacyclovir.
The inactive ingredients in Valtrex
are carnauba wax, colloidal silicon
dioxide, crospovidone, FD&C Blue
No. 2 Lake, hypromellose, magnesium
stearate, microcrystalline cellulose,
polyethylene glycol, polysorbate 80,
povidone, and titanium dioxide.
Special
Warnings while using Valtrex
It is important that you inform your
doctor if you have any of these conditions:
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
(AIDS)
- any other condition that may weaken
the immune system
- dehydration
- kidney disease
- an allergic reaction to valacyclovir,
acyclovir, ganciclovir, valganciclovir
and other medicines, foods, dyes,
or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
or
- are breast-feeding
It is necessary to inform your doctor
if your symptoms do not improve after
1 week of taking Valtrex. This drug
works best when taken early in the
course of an infection.
Usage
of Valtrex
Valtrex should be taken orally with
a full glass of water. It is also
important that you take this drug
exactly as prescribed and at regular
intervals. Do not take Valtrex more
often than directed. Also do not stop
taking this drug unless your doctor
advises you to do so. Special care
maybe needed when using Valtrex in
children. If you miss a dose, take
it as soon as you can, however if
it is almost time for your next dose,
skip the missed dose. Do not take
a double or extra dose of Valtrex.
Drug
Interactions of Valtrex
Valtrex is known t interact with the
following drugs;
- cimetidine
- fosphenytoin
- phenytoin
- probenecid
It is important that you inform your
doctor about all other medicines you
are taking, including non-prescription
drugs, nutritional supplements, and
herbal products. Also inform your
doctor if you drink caffeine or alcohol
frequently, or if you smoke or use
illegal drugs. All these may affect
the way Valtrex works.
Side
Effects of Using Valtrex
If you experience any of the following
side effects, inform your doctor immediately.
- changes in your menstrual cycle
- hives
- reduced amount of urine passed
- skin rash
- stomach pain
- unusual weakness or tiredness
Side effects that usually do not
require medical attention include;
- bone pain
- dizziness
- headache
- nausea and
- vomiting |
