Valtrex
is a prescription medication used
in the treatment of genital herpes,
herpes zoster (shingles), and
herpes simplex (cold sores). Valtrex
is the only once-a-day antiviral
product, which has proven effective
in suppressing future genital
herpes outbreaks in adults with
normal immune systems. Valtrex
works by disrupting the process
by which the herpes virus duplicates
itself and spreads to other cells
in the body.
Valtrex Directions?
Take this medication
by mouth as directed. Take all this medication
as prescribed. Do not skip doses or stop taking
this without your doctor's approval. Stopping
therapy too soon may result in ineffective
treatment.
Valtrex Side Effects?
If your immune system
is not normal because of advanced HIV disease,
bone marrow or kidney transplant, tell your
doctor to avoid a potentially serious complication.
Common side effects are Nausea, vomiting,
headache, loss of appetite, weakness, stomach
pain or dizziness may occur the first several
days as your body adjusts to the medication.
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 this medication.
Valtrex Warnings?
Valtrex has been proven
safe for the majority of people. Tell your
doctor if you have any kidney disease, blood
disorders or if you have any allergies. This
medication should be used only if clearly
needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks
and benefits with your doctor. It is not known
if this medication appears in breast milk.
Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.
Valtrex Drug Interactions?
Tell your doctor of
any over-the-counter or prescription medication
you may take including cimetidine or probenecid.
Valtrex Missed Dose?
Try to take each dose
at the scheduled time. If you miss a dose,
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 to catch up.
Valtrex Storage?
Store this medication
at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees
F (15 to 25 degrees C) away from heat and
light. Keep this and all medications out of
the reach of children.
Anything Else I Should
Know About Valtrex?
VALTREX is intended
for healthy adults and is available by prescription
only. There is no cure for herpes. Even with
treatment, it may be possible to spread the
herpes virus to others.
While taking VALTREX for cold sores, you should
not exceed one day of treatment, two doses
taken 12 hours apart.
NOTE: The above
information is intended to supplement, not
substitute for, the expertise and judgment
of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare
professional. It should not be construed to
indicate that the use of the product is safe,
appropriate, or effective for you. Consult
your healthcare professional before taking
the product.