Valacyclovir Oral

Valacyclovir Oral Uses

Valacyclovir is used to treat cold sores (herpes labialis) and shingles (herpes zoster). It is also used to treat genital herpes in patients with normal immune systems. Valacyclovir can also be used to control genital herpes outbreaks in all patients, including those with HIV. This is also known as suppressive therapy. This medication helps control symptoms, but does not cure the disease.

Valacyclovir belongs to a class of medications known as antivirals.

If you are taking valacyclovir for treatment of genital herpes, it is important to follow safe sex practices to lower the chance of giving herpes to your partner, even if there are no symptoms present. Always use a condom made of latex or polyurethane. When you have symptoms or are experiencing an outbreak, do not have sexual contact with your partner.

How To Use Valacyclovir Oral

Read the Patient Information Leaflet available from your pharmacist. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Take valacyclovir by mouth, with or without food or as directed by your doctor. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. When taking this medication to treat an outbreak, it works best if you take this medication when you first notice an outbreak is starting. The medication may not work as well if you wait more than 72 hours to start it. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.

When treating an outbreak, continue to take this medication until the full-prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear. When using this drug to suppress/control outbreaks, take exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not skip doses or stop taking this without your doctor's approval. Stopping therapy too soon may result in ineffective treatment.

If using this medication to treat an outbreak, inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

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Dosage and Storage

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