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Drug Name: VALTREX
IMPORTANT VALTREX NOTE:
THE FOLLOWING 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 USE OF THE DRUG IS SAFE, APPROPRIATE, OR EFFECTIVE FOR YOU. CONSULT YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL BEFORE USING VALTREX.
VALACYCLOVIR-ORAL (val-uh-SYE-klo-veer)
COMMON VALTREX BRAND NAME(S):
Valtrex
VALTREX USES:
Valacyclovir (Valtrex) is an antiviral agent used in the treatment of shingles (herpes zoster) or genital herpes. Valtrex may also be used for cold sores (herpes simplex).
HOW TO USE VALTREX:
Take Valtrex by mouth as directed. Take Valtrex as prescribed. Do not skip Valtrex doses or stop taking Valtrex without your doctor's approval. Stopping Valtrex therapy too soon may result in ineffective Valtrex treatment. For best results, take Valtrex at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night.
VALTREX 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. Use caution operating machinery or participating in activities requiring alertness if Valtrex makes you feel dizzy. If you notice other effects from Valtrex not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
VALTREX PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, blood disorders, any allergies. Caution is advised when using Valtrex in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of Valtrex. 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 if you plan to take Valtrex.
VALTREX DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: cimetidine, probenecid. Do not start or stop Valtrex or any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
VALTREX OVERDOSE:
If Valtrex overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of Valtrex overdose may include sluggishness, change in amount of urine, loss of consciousness, or seizures.
VALTREX NOTES:
Valtrex is most effective if it is started within 48 hours of when the rash first appears.
MISSED VALTREX DOSE:
Try to take each Valtrex dose at the scheduled time. If you miss a Valtrex dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next Valtrex dose, instead, skip the missed Valtrex dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the Valtrex dose to catch up.
VALTREX STORAGE:
Store Valtrex at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store Valtrex in a moist bathroom. Keep Valtrex and all medications out of the reach of children.
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