VALACYCLOVIR
Background and Date of Approval
The U.S. FDA approved valacyclovir on 25 June 2001 for patients with shingles and herpes infections of the skin, eyes, and genitals, for cytomegalovirus in organ transplant patients, to prevent infection relapse, and to prevent cold sores.
Uses
Valacyclovir is used to treat shingles and herpes infections of the skin, eyes, and genitals, cytomegalovirus in organ transplant patients, prevent infection relapse, and prevent cold sores. Herpes virus is associated with causing a cold sore that produces painful ulcers around the mouth. Shingles infection causes blisters over the skin. Cytomegalovirus infection causes flu-like symptoms along with skin rashes and swollen lymph glands
How is it administered?
Take the Valacyclovir tablet as your physician advises. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Valacyclovir are sickness, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, photosensitivity (skin reaction after exposure to sunlight) Serious side effects while taking Valacyclovir are swelling of the lips, face, neck, and throat, angioedema (difficulty in breathing), collapse in blood pressure, skin rashes (with or without blisters), or itchy edema dress (drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms) syndrome fever, flu.
Warnings
Do not consume Valcivir 1000mg tablet if you are allergic to Acyclovir or Valacyclovir and its other ingredients. Before starting the treatment, inform your physician if you have a liver or kidney condition because dose adjustment is needed in such a condition. Notify your doctor if you are above the age of 65 years or with weakened immune system.
Precautions
Do not continue taking Valacyclovir if you experience any rashes with fever, inflammation of lymph nodes, higher levels of liver enzymes, and eosinophilia (increased WBC count). While taking this tablet daily, it is advised to have safe sex to prevent the spread of genital herpes infection to your partner. Kidney patients should cautiously get injected with Valacyclovir.
Word of Advice
Keep Valacyclovir out of sight and reach of children. Store below 30°C. Do not freeze. Dose adjustments will be recommended for paediatric patients and those with renal impairment. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a missed dose. Maintain adequate fluid intake throughout the day during treatment with Valacyclovir to help reduce the risk of adverse effects affecting the nervous system and kidneys. Inform your doctor if you have had an organ transplant before starting Valacyclovir. Avoid sexual contact if genital sores or blisters are present.
References
Goodman & Gilmanâs, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Antiviral agents (Nonretroviral), 12th edition, 2011, 1594. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Antiviral drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 799. Ranbaxy (UK) Limited, Electronic medicines compendium (emc), [ Revised on Nov 2022], [Accessed on 18th May 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.4349.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Valacyclovir cause skin problems?
One of the common side effects of Valacyclovir is skin rash and itching. Contact your doctor if you experience any skin problems, as this could be a life-threatening symptom.
How can I manage the common side effect of Valacyclovir?
If you experience any common side effects while taking Valacyclovir, it is advised to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Your physician may also recommend over-the-counter or prescription medications to help manage side effects.
Why is it mandatory to use effective contraception during the treatment of Valacyclovir?
To avoid transmission of infection and unwanted pregnancy, it is advised to use effective contraception while taking Valacyclovir.
Who is contraindicated to Valacyclovir?
Patients with liver and kidney disease, if you are 65 years or above, if you have a weakened immune system. Before starting the treatment, inform your doctor if you come under any conditions.
When should I discontinue the Valacyclovir?
Do not continue taking Valacyclovir if you experience any rashes with fever, inflammation of lymph nodes, higher levels of liver enzymes, and eosinophilia (increased WBC count). However, consult your doctor for more information regarding the treatment.