Valacyclovir 500mg 14s

What is this medication used for​​​?

Commonly known by its brand name, Valtrex, Valacyclovir is an antiviral drug used to treat viral infections. Examples include herpes viruses that cause genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chicken pox. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Valacyclovir may also be used to treat other conditions.

Dosage and How to Use​

Take Valacyclovir exactly as directed by your doctor. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Valacyclovir should be taken with or after food.

What to do if I missed a dose?

If you miss a dose or forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you can. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not double your dose or take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose. If you have missed several doses, please call your physician to check what you should do.

What are the possible side effects?

Some common side effects of the medication include:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea or stomach upset - taking the medication with or after food can help alleviate these side effects.
• Headache or light-headedness - taking over-the-counter painkillers such as Paracetamol can help alleviate this.
• Tiredness or weakness. 

Side-effects other than those listed above may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side-effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

Stop taking Valacyclovir and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, closing of your throat, swelling of your lips, tongue or face, hives.
• Mental or mood changes 
• Severe tiredness and weakness
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Unable to urinate, change in volume or darkening of urine or blood in urine

What precautions should I take?

Inform your doctor or pharmacist if:

• You are taking any other medicines, herbal preparations, nutritional products or vitamin supplements
• You have kidney disease
• You are allergic to any other medicines
• You are breast-feeding, pregnant, or likely to become pregnant during the course of the treatment

Handling and storage

• Store in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and sunlight.
• Do not refrigerate unless instructed to do so.

The above information answers some common questions about this medicine. It does not contain all the available information. It also does not take the place of talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

References

https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/medications/oral-antivirals