Valacyclovir (val-a-CY-clo-veer) is an antiviral agent used to treat infections such as genital herpes. This infection is
caused by a virus called herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV causes small, fluid-filled blisters which break down into
ulcers/sores which may be itchy or painful. These blisters contain many infectious HSV particles. Valacyclovir helps
stop the virus from spreading, reduces the number of painful blisters and also helps them to heal more quickly. If you
start taking valacylovir as soon as you feel an episode starting, it may be possible to actually prevent the blisters from
developing. It may also be used in the prevention and treatment of a number of other kinds of infections caused by the herpes virus (eg. shingles).
Valacyclovir is still a relatively new antiviral agent and is not currently approved for use in patients who are immunosuppressed (ie. Advanced HIV disease, kidney and bone marrow transplant).
HOW should this drug be taken ?
The recommended dose of valacyclovir will depend on whether your doctor has prescribed the medicine for the treatment of shingles or for genital herpes.
The recommended dose used to treat recurrent genital herpes infections is 500 mg (1 x 500mg caplet) twice daily for a period of five days.
The recommended dose of valacyclovir used to treat shingles in adults is 1000 mg (2 x 500mg caplets) three times daily for a period of seven days.
In both cases, it is important to start taking your medicine as soon as you can for the best effect.
You may take valacyclovir with or without food. Swallow each caplet whole with water. Do not chew it. It is important to
finish all the caplets you have been given even if you start to feel better.
What should you do if you FORGET a dose?
If you miss a dose of valacyclovir take it as soon as possible, then just carry on with your regular dosing schedule. If you
remember your missed dose close to the time for your next dose (ie. within 2 hours), do not double your dose. Continue with your regular dosing schedule.
What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause ? What should you do about them?
Valacyclovir is generally well tolerated. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, or headache may occur. If these effects
occur and are bothersome, let your doctor or pharmacist know. Call your doctor immediately if you experience side
effects such as unusual bruising or bleeding or if you think you have an allergic reaction (ie. rash) to valacyclovir.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS, SO THAT YOUR PROGRESS CAN BE ASSESSED REGULARLY.
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE EFFECTS, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE TEAM.
What other PRECAUTIONS should you follow while using this drug ?
Let your doctor know if you have had an allergic reaction or serious side effect to other antiviral agents such as acyclovir, famciclovir or ganciclovir.
Valacyclovir may interact with other drugs. It is important to let your doctor or pharmacist know about other drugs you
are taking, even medications which you can buy without a prescription. It is especially important to let them know if you
are taking probenecid (Benemid), cimetidine (Tagamet), steroids (eg. Prednisone) or any anti-cancer drugs before starting valacyclovir.
Since valacyclovir is removed from the body by your kidneys, it is important to inform your doctor if you have kidney
disease prior to taking this medicine. Also tell your doctor if you have HIV, AIDS, or any kind of bone marrow disease.
The safety of valacyclovir has not been established during pregnancy or breast feeding. Please discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist if this is a concern.
How should this medication be STORED?
Valacyclovir should be stored at room temperature (15-30C) in a dry place and protected from light. Do not store in the
bathroom, as heat and moisture may cause the medication to lose its effectiveness. Keep this drug safely away from children.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THIS MEDICATION, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR NURSE, PHARMACIST, OR PHYSICIAN.
PLEASE WRITE DOWN YOUR QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS TO ENSURE THEY ARE ADDRESSED
