Valacyclovir
Information about Valacyclovir
Valacyclovir uses
Valacyclovir is used in the treatment of herpes labialis, genital herpes infection and herpes simplex virus infections.
How valacyclovir works
Valacyclovir is an antiviral medication. It prevents the multiplication of virus in human cells. This stops the virus from producing new viruses and clears up your infection.
Common side effects of valacyclovir
Headache, Nausea, Abdominal pain, Rash, Dizziness, Decreased white blood cell count, Increased liver enzymes, Diarrhea, Depression, Nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the throat and nasal passages), Joint inflammation, Decreased hemoglobin, Acute renal failure, Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Available Medicine for Valacyclovir
Expert advice for Valacyclovir
- Do not skip any doses and finish the full course of treatment even if you feel better.
- Drink plenty of water while on treatment with this medicine. This helps to prevent dehydration and kidney damage.
- If you have genital herpes, use barrier methods (condoms) for contraception and avoid sexual contact while the sores are present.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to conceive or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Valacyclovir
Valacyclovir
Q. For how long do I need to take Valacyclovir?
The duration of Valacyclovir treatment depends on the disease you are being treated for and whether your immune system is capable of fighting infections or not. For example, if you are taking it for shingles and your immune system works effectively, then you may need to take it for 7 days only. But, if your immunity is compromised, then you may need to take Valacyclovir for 7 days and for 2 days more after the lesions have dried and healed. Follow your doctor’s recommendations strictly.
Q. Does Valacyclovir cure herpes infection?
Valacyclovir reduces the pain and itching caused due to the herpes infection but does not cure it. It helps to heal the sores and prevents the formation of new ones.
Q. Is Valacyclovir an antibiotic or a steroid? What is it used for?
Valacyclovir is neither an antibiotic nor a corticosteroid. It is an antiviral medicine and acts against viruses. It is effective against herpes simplex virus (chickenpox, cold sores, and genital herpes), varicella zoster virus (shingles), and cytomegalovirus (CMV). Valacyclovir prevents the occurrence of CMV infection and disease after organ transplant.