Valtrex is an anti-viral drug. It is often used by children to treat cold sores around the mouth and chickenpox. Adults typically use this drug to treat shingles and cold sores around the mouth. Valtrex is also used to treat genital herpes. It helps to stop the growth of certain viruses but is not a cure for them. These viruses live in the body forever between outbreaks. Valtrex helps lessen the symptoms of an outbreak by healing sores faster, preventing new sores from forming, and reducing pain and itching.
Valtrex is to be taken by mouth, with or without food. It’s best to take Valtrex with plenty of water to reduce the chance of side effects. The dosage prescribed for Valtrex depends on the type of infection, medical condition, response to treatment, and weight of the patient. The medication works best when started at the very first sign of an outbreak and likely will not work as well if treatment is delayed.
Valtrex works best if it is constantly in your system, so it is best to take it at the same time every day.
Some side effects of Valtrex include: nausea, stomach pain, headache, and dizziness. Serious side effects, including mental/mood changes, trouble speaking, shaky/unsteady movements, or signs of kidney problems should be reported to a physician immediately. Extreme allergic reactions are unlikely.
Valtrex may rarely cause a life-threatening condition that affects the blood cells, kidneys, and other parts of the body. It’s much more likely to occur if your immune system is already compromised, as with the conditions of HIV, bone marrow transplant, or kidney transplant. It is not likely to cause a severe allergic reaction.
Since Valtrex can make you dizzy, it’s best to avoid alcohol and marijuana until you know how the drug affects you. You should also avoid driving or using machinery while on the medication until you know how it affects you.
The following drugs may interact with Valtrex: any drugs that can cause kidney problems, such as anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or naproxen.
Valtrex is also very similar to acyclovir, so should not be used at the same time.
Symptoms of overdose on Valtrex may include: change in the amount of urine, extreme tiredness, mental/mood changes, loss of consciousness, or seizures. Valtrex should not be shared with others. If a dose is missed, the patient should take it as soon as they remember. If it’s near the time of the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped. It’s not advisable to double-dose to catch up in that situation.
Valtrex should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture. It should not be stored in the bathroom and should be kept away from children and pets.
Valtrex is a blue oblong tablet with the word “Valtrex” printed on it in white, along with the dosage.
Based on patient reviews, Valtrex has obtained about 4 stars.
In Australia, Valtrex is available via the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) as of April 1, 2018. It is a government subsidized medicine.