VALACYCLOVIR

Valaciclovir is an antiviral drug used for the treatment of shingles, herpes labialis, herpes simplex, genital herpes, skin and mucosal membrane infections and also to suppress recurring herpes simplex.

It is a prodrug which can be fastly converted to aciclovir by hepatic and intestinal metabolism.

Uses

VALACYCLOVIR is prescribed to treat herpes zoster (shingles), prophylaxis of cytomegaloviral infections in immunocompromised patients, herpes labialis, genital herpes, herpes simplex infections of skin and mucous membranes, and suppression of recurrent herpes simplex.

Warnings

Do not give this drug to people with the following conditions:

Hypersensitivity to valaciclovir or aciclovir.

Side Effects

Valaciclovir may have the following side effects:

Acute renal failure
Headache
Nausea
Vomiting
Central nervous system effects (example agitation, hallucinations, confusion, delirium, seizures, encephalopathy)

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/haemolytic uraemic syndrome in patients with advanced HIV disease

Precautions

Precautions

Take extra caution in patients with the following medical conditions:

Patient at risk of dehydration
Renal impairment
Pregnancy and lactation

Interactions

Valaciclovir may interact with the following medicines:

Nephrotoxic drugs (example aminoglycosides, organoplatinum compounds, iodinated contrast media, methotrexate, pentamidine, foscarnet, ciclosporin, tacrolimus)
Probenecid
Cimetidine

Overdose & Brands

If you think you have used Valaciclovir more than the usual dosage, please seek medical help immediately.

Available Brands:

Aciclovex
Valtrex