Valtrex

Other names used:

• Zelitrex®

Active Ingredients:

• Valaciclovir (Valacyclovir)

The commercial name of the medication may differ from the brand one. Generic Valtrex manufactured by Cipla is available under commercial name Valcivir.

How does Valtrex work and what pharmaceutical group does it belong to?

Valtrex is an antiviral drug. After valacyclovir is absorbed into systemic blood flow it is metabolized into acyclovir which exerts the antiviral effects of the preparation. The preparation works by inhibiting the synthesis of viral DNA thus blocking the viruses possibility to replicate.

Which conditions are treated with Valacyclovir?

Valtrex is used in the following treatments:

• Herpes zoster induced by Varicella zoster virus
• Skin and mucous membrane infections induced by Herpes simplex virus 1 and 2
• Labial herpes
• Prophylaxis of herpes infection manifestation
• Prophylaxis of Cytomegalovirus infections in organ transplantation

What should a patient know before using Valtrex?

The Valacyclovir should not be used in cases of:

• Hypersensitivity to any components of the preparation as well as over antivirals(Acyclovir and etc.)
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding
• Dehydration
• Renal failure

The patients should exert caution in the following conditions:

• Severe liver cirrhosis
• Renal disorders
• Young age
• Elderly patients

Which adverse effects may manifest when using the medication?

The side effects of Valtrex include:

• CNS: headaches, dizziness, confusion, hallucinations, decreased mental capacity, agitation, tremor, ataxia, dysarthria,psychotic symptoms, seizures, encephalopathy, coma
• Respiratory system: dyspnoe
• Gastrointestinal tract: abdominal discomfort, nausea, diarrhea
• Dermatological reactions: rash, photosensitivity, itching
• Allergic reactions: hives, angioneurotic shock
• Urogenital system: renal disorders, liver failure

It is not necessary that the side effects will manifest in an individual but the possibility still exist. For more information please consult your health care provider.

Which groups of drugs or specific preparations may interact with Valacyclovir?

The drug is affected by the following:

• H2-histamine receptor blockers
• Gout treatment
• Immunosuppressors

Tell your doctor about all the herbal preparations as well as prescription drugs that you are currently taking even if they are not on the list.

Important information for the patient:

Valtrex is supplied for individual use. Do not use it to treat other conditions not listed in the leaflet. Keep the product out of children reach. Do not reuse any disposable materials if supplied with the preparation.