How To Use

Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir) should be taken orally, with or without food, and with plenty of fluids. Start taking this medication at the first sign of symptoms. The longer you wait, the greater the chance that this medication will not be effective in treating your condition. Follow the instructions of your doctor exactly, even if they differ from the usually recommended dosage. Your doctor will determine your dosage based on your general health, the condition being treated and your response to treatment.

 

Never skip dosages or stop taking Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir) without consulting your doctor first. If you quit your therapy too early, the treatment may prove to be ineffective.  

 

Overdose

Potential symptoms of a Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir) overdose include:

• Change in the amount of urine
• Sluggishness
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures

If you think you have taken too much of this medication, contact your local poison control center or the emergency medical services immediately.

 

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir), take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dosage, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on this medication to try and make up for a missed dose.

 

Notes

Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir) only stops the spread of the herpes virus and reduces some of the outward symptoms. It is not a cure for herpes.

 

To prevent being infected with genital herpes or to prevent spreading genital herpes once infected, it is essential to use an adequate barrier method during sexual intercourse, such as a latex condom.

 

While taking Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir), you may need regular medical or laboratory tests to chart your progress and check for side effects. Make sure you do not miss any of these appointments.

 

Do not share this medication with others as they may have a condition that is not adequately treated with Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir).

 

Storage

Store Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir) at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15-25 degrees C) and keep away from light, heat and moisture. Once finished, dispose of this medication in keeping with environmental standards. KEEP THIS AND ALL MEDICATIONS OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

 

Important Note

The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed that the taking of this medication is safe, appropriate or effective for you.

 

 

Precautions

Before taking Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir), inform your doctor of your personal and family medical history, including:

• Any allergies
• Kidney diseases
• Blood disorders
• Immune system problems (e.g. HIV disease, bone marrow transplant, organ transplant)

Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir) may cause dizziness. You should therefore avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you are sure you can perform these activities safely.

 

Caution is advised when Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir) is taken by elderly people as they may be more sensitive to certain side effects of this medication, such as confusion, agitation and kidney problems.

 

Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir) is classified as Pregnancy Category B by the FDA, which means it is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. However, do not start taking this medication if you are currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant during treatment, before discussing the risks and benefits with your doctor first.

Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir) is excreted into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Discuss the risks and benefits of taking this medication with your doctor if you are currently breastfeeding.

 

Drug Interactions

Before using Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir), you should discuss all other medications you are currently taking with your doctor, especially:

• Cimetidine
• Probenecid
• Aminoglycosides (e.g. gentamicin, tobramycin)
• Amphotericin B
• Cyclosporine
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs - NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen)
• Tacrolimus
• Vancomycin

This is only a partial list and other medicines may interact negatively with Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir). Notify your doctor of all other prescription and non-prescription medication you are currently using, including vitamins, minerals, herbal pills, dietary supplements and medication prescribed by other doctors. Do not start or stop using any medication without discussing this with your doctor first.

 

 

The following common side effects of Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir) may occur:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Stomach pain
• Painful periods

The above side effects are usually mild and should only last temporarily. Contact your doctor as soon as possible if any of these effects persist or worsen.

 

Inform your doctor straightaway if you experience any of these unlikely but serious side effects:

• Mental or mood changes (e.g. agitation, hallucinations)
• Confusion
• Speech problems
• Shaky or unsteady movement
• Vision changes

Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of the following rare but very serious side effects:

• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness
• Signs of other infections (e.g. fever, persistent sore throat)

In rare cases, Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir) may cause a blood disorder (thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura) or a serious kindey problem (hemolytic uremic syndrome). You are at greater risk of developing one of these conditions if you have been infected with the HIV virus or if you have had a bone marrow or organ transplant. Inform your doctor straightaway if you notice any of the following rare but very serious side effects related to these conditions:

• Change in the amount of urine
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Unusual fever

Rarely, you may develop a severe allergic reaction to Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir). Seek emergency medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Rash
• Itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue or throat)
• Severe dizziness
• Trouble breathing

This is only a partial list and other side effects of Generic Valtrex (Valaciclovir) may occur. Talk to your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any other side effects than the ones mentioned above, especially if they are bothersome.