If you have genital herpes and Valtrex has been prescribed for you, this article will provide you with valuable information, increasing your awareness of Valtrex, and helping you feel more comfortable using Valtrex, since it will now be a part of your every day life.
Valacyclovir Hydrochloride, or Valtrex, is the drug of choice for genital herpes. Valtrex's tablets are blue and oblong in shape. These tablets come in either 500 mg or 1000 mg strengths. When treating genital herpes, patients take one gram of Valtrex twice a day for ten days. It is recommended that you take 500 mg twice daily for 3 days to treat recurrent genital herpes. Valtrex can be used to treat cold sores caused by the herpes virus. At the onset of a cold sore, Two grams of Valtrex should be taken twice a day.
Valacyclovir Hydrochloride is the main ingredient in Valtrex and it works by converting to acyclovir by the metabolism through the first-pass intestinal and/or hepatic system. An acyclic nucleotide which is actually an imposter, Acyclovir slows down the herpes virus. Acyclovir incorporates into the chains of DNA and destroys the herpes virus residing within the chain. Repetition in this process treats the symptoms of the herpes virus along with its symptoms, but the process does not cure it. Valtrex peaks in its effects after oral consumption in two and a half to three and a half hours. The elimination of Valtrex may be decreased if you take Benemid (probenacid) or Tagamet (cimetidine).
Acyclovir can build up in the renal tubes of patients that are dehydrated. Your doctor should have explained to you that even with a Valtrex treatment, various viral mutations of herpes can happen, and when this virus is present in your body, it would be irresponsible of you to spread it to others by engaging in sexual activity, so abstinence is the best policy.
Valtrex can cause nausea, headache, vomiting, and stomach pain. Tremors may also be noted. Seek medical attention immediately if you begin to experience any sort of allergic reaction including rashes, hives, or swelling of the throat. If you forget to take a dose, unless it is very close to the time for your next dosage, take the dose as soon as you remember it. Never take a double dose. It is important to keep Valtrex in a dry, cool place, and to keep it away from sunlight and children. The potency of Valtrex could be lowered by the light of the sun. Furthermore, even though you might be feeling better, or your herpes symptoms may be going away, it is important not to stop taking Valtrex.
You can alleviate your symptoms by taking anti-viral and daily suppressive drugs, like Acyclovir (Zovirax) and Famciclovir (Famvir), as well as taking warm baths and consuming pain relievers like Ibuprofen.
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