Generic Name : Valacyclovir
Pronunciation : val- a- SYE- kloe- veer
Trade Name(s):
India- Valcivir.
International- Valtrex.
Why it is prescribed (Indications) :
This medication is an antiviral agent, prescribed for herpes zoster (shingles), genital herpes and herpes labialis (cold sores). This medication slows down the growth and spread of the herpes virus, which is responsible for infection. Valacyclovir is also prescribed for the treatment of chicken pox in children less than 2 years of age.
When it is not to be taken (Contraindications):
Category B : Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women OR Animal studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus in any trimester.
When it is to be taken :
Herpes Zoster: 1gm, three-times/ day for a week.
Herpes Simplex: First episode: 0.50-10gm two times/ day, for 10days; recurrent episode: 0.5gm two times/ day for 3 days.
Cold Sores: 2gm two times per day.
How it should be taken :
It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with or without food.
Special Instruction :
* It may lead to dehydration, drink adequate water or liquid.
* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of liver or kidney impairment, AIDS, severe allergic reactions, elderly, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
* It may make you drowsy, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
* Monitor kidney function regularly during first 10 days of treatment.
Side Effects :
Most Common-
Headache, abdominal pain, pain in the lower back region, weakness, swelling in the face, lip, tongue and throat region.
Respiratory -
Difficulty in breathing.
Skin -
Hives and red spots in the skin.
Gastrointestinal -
Bloody diarrhea, vomiting and nausea.
Central Nervous System-
Fainting, drowsiness, mood changes, convulsions, confusion, aggression and hallucinations.
Eye -
Vision problems.
Miscellaneous-
Photosensitivity, liver function abnormalities, depression, joint pain, stuffy nose and sore throat.
Other Precautions :
* Avoid sexual contact with your life partner, if you have symptoms of genital herpes.
* Do not stop the medication without consulting with your doctor.
Storage Conditions :
Oral: Store below 30°C. Do not freeze.
Pronunciation : val- a- SYE- kloe- veer
Trade Name(s):
India- Valcivir.
International- Valtrex.
Why it is prescribed (Indications) :
This medication is an antiviral agent, prescribed for herpes zoster (shingles), genital herpes and herpes labialis (cold sores). This medication slows down the growth and spread of the herpes virus, which is responsible for infection. Valacyclovir is also prescribed for the treatment of chicken pox in children less than 2 years of age.
When it is not to be taken (Contraindications):
Hypersensitivity to valaciclovir and acyclovir.
Pregnancy Category : |
|
When it is to be taken :
Herpes Zoster: 1gm, three-times/ day for a week.
Herpes Simplex: First episode: 0.50-10gm two times/ day, for 10days; recurrent episode: 0.5gm two times/ day for 3 days.
Cold Sores: 2gm two times per day.
How it should be taken :
It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with or without food.
Special Instruction :
* It may lead to dehydration, drink adequate water or liquid.
* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of liver or kidney impairment, AIDS, severe allergic reactions, elderly, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
* It may make you drowsy, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
* Monitor kidney function regularly during first 10 days of treatment.
Side Effects :
Most Common-
Headache, abdominal pain, pain in the lower back region, weakness, swelling in the face, lip, tongue and throat region.
Respiratory -
Difficulty in breathing.
Skin -
Hives and red spots in the skin.
Gastrointestinal -
Bloody diarrhea, vomiting and nausea.
Central Nervous System-
Fainting, drowsiness, mood changes, convulsions, confusion, aggression and hallucinations.
Eye -
Vision problems.
Miscellaneous-
Photosensitivity, liver function abnormalities, depression, joint pain, stuffy nose and sore throat.
Other Precautions :
* Avoid sexual contact with your life partner, if you have symptoms of genital herpes.
* Do not stop the medication without consulting with your doctor.
Storage Conditions :
Oral: Store below 30°C. Do not freeze.
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