What you need to know about Valacyclovir tablets

Has your doctor prescribed you a medicine called Valacyclovir for a condition like Herpes, Chickenpox, or Shingles? You may have questions about what kind of medicine it is, how to use it, and what precautions you should take. Don't worry, today we'll talk about everything about this medicine called Valacyclovir, as simple as talking to a friend.

What is this medicine called Valacyclovir actually used for?

Simply put, Valacyclovir is an antiviral drug . This means that this medicine helps control certain types of viruses in our bodies and reduce their spread.

Think of it like a special police officer who fights viruses. But this officer can only catch a few specific viral thieves. Similarly, the drug Valacyclovir works mainly on infections belonging to the herpes virus family.

Here are some examples:

• Cold Sores: Small blister-like sores that appear on the lips or around the mouth.
• Genital Herpes: Herpes infection that occurs in the genital areas.
• Shingles: Painful blisters that appear under the skin like a band on one side of the body.
• Chickenpox: A rash that often appears in childhood and spreads all over the body.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

Before you start taking Valacyclovir, it is important to discuss your complete health history with your doctor. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• Kidney disease: This medication is eliminated from the body primarily through the kidneys. So if you have any kidney problems, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage.
• Diseases that weaken the immune system: If you have a disease that weakens the immune system, such as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
• If your immune system is weakened for another reason: For example, if you have had a bone marrow transplant or kidney transplant.
• Allergies:If you have an allergy to Valacyclovir, other antivirals such as Acyclovir, Ganciclovir, Valganciclovir, or any other medicine, food, or dye, you must disclose it.
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant: It is essential to talk to your doctor about this and seek advice.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother: Inform your doctor about this as well.

How should I use the medicine?

The most important thing is to take the prescribed dosage exactly as the doctor says.

• How to take: Take this pill with a glass of water. It doesn't matter whether you take it before or after a meal.
• On time: Take your medicine at the scheduled times of the day. Don't skip it.
• Complete the course: Even if you feel a little better, be sure to finish the medication for the full number of days prescribed by your doctor. Otherwise, the virus may not be completely controlled and may recur.
• If you miss a dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
• If given to children: This medicine is sometimes prescribed for children over 2 years of age. But talk to your doctor about it and follow his instructions exactly.

What do you do if you take too much?

If you think you have accidentally taken more than the prescribed dose, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

Other drugs that may interact with this medicine

Valacyclovir can interact with some other medications. So tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking. This includes not only prescription medications, but also over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies, vitamins, and supplements. Also, tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.

Be especially careful if you are taking the following medications:

• Cidofovir
• Probenecid
• Cimetidine
• Other medications that can affect the kidneys (e.g., some antibiotics, Cyclosporine, Tacrolimus)

This list is not complete, so it is very important to tell your doctor about everything you are taking .

Things to keep in mind when taking medication

• Start early: To get the most out of this medication, you should start treatment within 72 hours of the first signs of infection. Imagine you have shingles, which is a rash, itching, and pain. Starting treatment early can help prevent the spread and severity of the disease.
• Drink plenty of water: This is very important. Drink plenty of water throughout the day while taking Valacyclovir. This helps the medicine to be excreted from the body through the kidneys and minimizes any potential side effects on the kidneys.
• Pay attention to symptoms: If your symptoms don't improve after taking the medication for about a week, tell your doctor.
• About Genital Herpes: If you have genital herpes, there is a chance that you can pass the virus to your partner even when you are not experiencing symptoms (sores, blisters). Therefore, it is very important to always practice safe sex practices (e.g., using a condom).

Side effects of the medicine

Like any medicine, Valacyclovir can cause side effects in some people. However, not everyone gets them. Let's take a look at what they are.

This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything unusual, talk to your doctor about it.

How should I store the medicine?

• Keep away from children.
• Store at room temperature (between 15-25 degrees Celsius).
• Keep the bottle tightly closed.
• Throw away expired medicine.

Valacyclovir, Valtrex, Viral Infections, Herpes, Chickenpox, Chickenpox, Shingles, Chickenpox, Genital Herpes, Cold Sores, Sinhala medical article