English | Spanish
Valacyclovir ( val-ay-SYE-clo-veer ) (Valtrex®) What is this medication used for? This medication is an antiviral used to treat viruses such as herpes infections including cold sores, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and shingles (herpes zoster).
What does it look like? • Liquid • Tablet • Capsule How is it given? • By mouth (oral or po) • Into the vein (IV) or venous access device What are common side effects? • Nausea or stomach (abdominal) pain
What are less common side effects? • Allergic reaction, which may include rash, itching (pruritis), and red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin, with or without fever • Pain in lower back • Swelling, • Shortness of breath • Feeling confused or aggressive • Shakiness, trouble moving, or stiffness • Pinpoint red spots (petechiae) on your skin, unusual bleeding or bruising, or blood in urine or stools Special instructions: • Store tablets at room temperature. • Store liquid suspension in the refrigerator. Throw away any part not used in 28 days. • If given a liquid suspension, shake suspension well prior to each dose. • Drink plenty of water while you are talking valacyclovir to keep your kidneys working properly. • Take with or without food. Take with food if it causes an upset stomach. • Protect the medicine from light. • If symptoms do not get better or if they become worse, call your healthcare provider.
• Headache • Dizziness • Feeling tired (fatigue, malaise) • Joint pain (arthralgia) • Menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea) • Mild skin rash • Stuffy nose or sore throat
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
Powered by FlippingBook