Valcivir is an antiviral used in patients with normal immune systems to treat herpes zoster infections (shingles) or to treat or suppress genital herpes. Valcivir may be used in combination with safe sex practices in patients with genital herpes to help reduce the risk of spreading the condition to others. This medicine may also be used for cold sores (herpes simplex) or other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Before Using Valcivir
Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your Doctor or Pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. Use of this medicine is not recommended in patients without a normal immune system (immunocompromised patients). Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.
Directions
Valcivir comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken every 8 hours (three times a day) for 7 days to treat shingles.
To treat genital herpes it is usually taken twice a day for 5 days.
Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Valcivir exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Use this medication as soon as possible after symptoms appear.
Continue to take valacyclovir even if you feel well. Do not stop taking valacyclovir without talking to your doctor.
Side Effects
Although side effects from Valcivir are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- headache
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- diarrhea or loose stools
- constipation
If you experience any of the following side effects, call your doctor immediately:
- rash
- itching
- confusion
- yellowness of the skin or eyes
- fever
- blood in the urine
What is I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it, and take any remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Storage
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
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