Valtrex

What is it?

An antiviral preparation and DNA polymerise inhibitor, available as white tablets containing 500mg of valaciclovir as hydrochloride, marked with strength and name.

Medical Uses

Treatment and suppression of recurrent herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections of mucous membranes and skin; treatment and suppression of recurrent genital herpes infections.

Dosage

Adults, herpes zoster, 2 tablets 3 times each day for 1 week; treatment of herpes simplex, first outbreak, 1 tablet twice each day for 5 to 10 days starting as soon as possible. Recurrent infections, 1 tablet twice each day during early development stage or as soon as possible after lesions appear. Suppression in patients with operational immune system, 1/2 tablet twice each day or 1 tablet each day if there are fewer than 10 outbreaks in a year. Suppression in patients with weak immunity, 1 tablet twice each day. Genital herpes, 1 tablet twice each day starting as soon as possible after lesions appear, for 5 to 10 days. Recurrent attacks, same dose starting in early development stage or as soon as possible after lesions appear. Suppression in patients with operational immunity and in those with weak immunity, same as above. Special core: pregnancy, breastfeeding, impaired kidney fiunction.

Avoid Use

Children.

Known Side Effects

Nausea, headache.

Manufacturer

Glaxo Wellcome.