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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Valacyclovir needs to be reduced in people with kidney disease.Resistant strains of HSV and VZV have been reported.Adequate hydration must be maintained otherwise acyclovir can precipitate in the renal tubules if its solubility is exceeded in the intratubular fluid.Weigh up the risks versus benefits of treatment because acyclovir (the active form of valacyclovir) crosses the placenta into the unborn child. Acyclovir also passes into breast milk. Note: In general, seniors or children, people with certain medical conditions (such as liver or kidney problems, heart disease, diabetes, seizures) or people who take other medications are more at risk of developing a wider range of side effects. View complete list of side effects 4. Bottom Line Valacyclovir is an antiviral prodrug that is rapidly converted into acyclovir in the body. It should be started at the first sign of genital herpes or cold sore symptoms but is not a cure for these conditions. Valacyclovir only needs to be taken twice a day compared with acyclovir which needs to be taken five times a day. 5. Tips Take valacyclovir exactly as directed by your doctor and for the exact time prescribed, even if your symptoms improve.May be taken with or without food.Valacyclovir treatment is best started within 24 hours of symptom onset (ie, rash, blisters, tingling, burning). Data suggests valacyclovir is most effective if started within this time.Keep valacyclovir suspension in the refrigerator and shake well before use. Discard any unused portion after 28 days.Drink plenty of water while taking valacyclovir and do not allow yourself to become dehydrated.Although valacyclovir treats viruses, it is not effective against the flu or the common cold.If you have a shingles rash or a cold sore, try and keep it as clean and dry as possible. Be careful not to transfer the virus to others; ensure you do not share linen, such as towels. Wearing loose clothing may help prevent a shingles rash from becoming irritated.If you are taking valacyclovir for genital herpes or cold sores avoid sexual contact until you have finished the course of treatment. At other times, always use a condom, because herpes can be transmitted in the absence of symptoms.Seek urgent medical advice if you have any signs of an allergic reaction (such as hives; difficulty breathing; facial or throat swelling).Herpes infections are highly contagious and you should cover your rash and avoid intimate contact. Also, avoid touching the rash and then your eyes. Wash your hands frequently. If you have treated yourself for genital herpes and it recurs, then seek retreatment as soon as possible.If you have recurring cold sores, initiate treatment as soon as possible following the onset of symptoms (tingling, burning, or itching).Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy because acyclovir (the active form of valacyclovir) crosses the placenta into the unborn child. Acyclovir also passes into breast milk. 6. Response and effectiveness Valacyclovir is a prodrug that is rapidly converted to acyclovir after oral dosing. Peak concentrations of acyclovir are reached within one to
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