Learn about valaciclovir, a viral infection treatment
Valaciclovir, also known by the brand name Valtrex, has been used as a treatment for viral infections that result in herpes, shingles, chickenpox, and other conditions. However, there are a few things people need to know if they are taking this medication. At Chemist2U, we make it easy for you to access your medications. But first, let us learn more about valaciclovir.
In this article
How does valaciclovir work?
Valaciclovir is one of the available viral infection treatments that’s used for herpes treatment. When used within 72 hours of the onset of shingles, it’s also effective for treating ophthalmic zoster and as a cold sore remedy for recurrent sores.[1]
Importantly, it plays a crucial role in herpes virus management for genital herpes simplex infections, both in treating clinical episodes and preventing recurrences. Valaciclovir curtails the duration of viral shedding in genital herpes, accelerating the healing of lesions and alleviating associated pain.[2]
Furthermore, it can also help to prevent and delay the recurrence of genital herpes.[3]
How do you take valaciclovir?
It’s important to take this medicine as directed by your doctor. Remember to store this viral infection remedy in a dry place that’s below 25 degrees Celsius.
The dosage will depend on the diagnosis. For example, the typical recommended dosage for patients with shingles is two tablets three times a day. On the other hand, you may be advised to take four 400 mg tablets four times a day for the prevention of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and disease.
Your doctor will let you know the valaciclovir dosage, the frequency, and at what time of day.
Who can take valaciclovir?
As discussed, this medication has been used with success to treat herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles.
Valaciclovir was developed to treat infections caused by herpesviruses. It’s important to note that this includes the herpes viruses that are less sensitive to aciclovir than HSV and, as a result, need greater exposure to achieve effective antiviral suppression.[4]
While valaciclovir had no adverse effect on the fetus in animal studies, in pregnant women, it has not been adequately tested.[5] Pregnant women may be recommended to use valaciclovir only when the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the fetus.
It has not been established that this medication is safe for breastfeeding infants. In this case, mothers may be asked to consider alternatives to breastfeeding.
Side effects of valaciclovir
Common side effects include headaches, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and indigestion. It may also cause dry mouth, fever, sleep difficulties, chills, back pain, nervousness, itchy skin rashes, and weakness.
It’s important to be particularly vigilant if you have kidney disease or are on high doses of valaciclovir, as you might experience increased sensitivity to UV light, dizziness, confusion, hallucinations, difficulty in thinking, drowsiness, or decreased consciousness.[6]
Although valaciclovir is generally well-tolerated, it can occasionally cause systemic adverse effects like neurotoxicity, particularly in older patients or those with impaired renal function. Symptoms can also include confusion, altered consciousness, hallucinations, agitation, and dysarthria, are usually reversible within a week.[7]
If you notice any of the above symptoms and they worry you, inform your doctor immediately.
Valaciclovir and other medications
It’s important to tell your doctor about all the medications and supplements you’re using.
There are a number of medications that interact with valaciclovir, and it is important to know what they are. This antiviral medication may interact with a variety of drugs, including but not limited to lithium, methotrexate, certain pain or arthritis medicines, medications for ulcerative colitis, drugs used in organ transplant rejection prevention, IV antibiotics, other antiviral medications, and cancer treatments.[8]
For patients undergoing valaciclovir therapy due to sexually-transmitted conditions, your doctor may recommend that you follow safe sex practices, such as using condoms and birth control. This approach helps manage your condition while prioritising your overall health and safety.
Medicines you should not use with valaciclovir
Valaciclovir does not have any known severe interactions with other drugs. However, it’s important to be aware of a few serious interactions. It’s typically advised not to be taken with bacitracin and talimogene laherparepvec, among other drugs.[9]
How to order valaciclovir through Chemist2U
Looking up ‘chemist near me’ because chronic conditions make it difficult to head to a physical chemist? Experience the convenience of Chemist2U, where managing your prescription medication is easy.
Begin by downloading our user-friendly app, or using this website to order, and then uploadyour e prescription. After you upload your eScript, you can also explore our wide range of over-the-counter medications and general pharmacy goods and add them to your order, just like you would at a physical pharmacy.
Your medications are carefully dispensed by local, qualified pharmacists and delivered directly to your doorstep in metro and major regional areas across Australia. Trust us to help ensure you always have the medications you need, when you need them.
Order home delivery at Chemist2U today!
References
[1] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines/brand/amt,659941000168102/valaciclovir-an
[2] https://academic.oup.com/jid/article/190/8/1374/878164
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9118821/
[4] https://academic.oup.com/jid/article/186/Supplement_1/S40/837474
[5] https://www.rxlist.com/valtrex-drug.htm
[6] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/65ec0088-3788-4f87-9b0d-ad8800e45ab4.pdf
[7] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcpt.13464
