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Trusted, medically reviewed health information • Not a substitute for medical advice
Important: The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Generic Name: Valacyclovir
You experience severe allergic reaction symptoms (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat causing difficulty breathing), severe rash with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose. Call emergency medical services immediately.
Treatment of herpes zoster (shingles), genital herpes, cold sores
Herpes Zoster, Genital Herpes, Herpes Labialis
Shingles: 1 gram 3 times daily for 7 days. Cold sores: 2 grams twice for 1 day.
Cold sores (>=12 yrs): 2 grams twice for 1 day
Adjust dose based on renal function
3 grams/day (shingles) or 4 grams/day (cold sores)
Dose and/or interval reduction required for CrCl < 50 mL/min
No adjustment for mild/moderate cirrhosis
Headache, nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/hemolytic uremic syndrome (TTP/HUS), renal failure
Hypersensitivity to valacyclovir or acyclovir
CNS effects (agitation, hallucinations) primarily in elderly with renal impairment
Cimetidine, probenecid, nephrotoxic drugs
N/A
N/A
Often used during pregnancy if needed
Acyclovir is excreted in milk, use with caution
Start treatment at the earliest sign of symptom. Maintain adequate hydration.
Take as soon as remembered. Skip if close to next dose.
Renal function
Content for Valacyclovir was synthesized and fact-checked against standardized regulatory monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and national health authorities:
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.