Valtrex - Valacyclovir

What is it?

Composition

Valtrex contains the active substance valciclovir, which is a prodrug of acyclovir. This means that after entering the body, valciclovir is quickly converted into acyclovir, which performs the main therapeutic function. Acyclovir actively blocks the enzyme DNA polymerase, which is necessary for viruses to reproduce, thereby preventing their spread in the body.

Additionally, Valtrex contains auxiliary components that ensure the stability and effectiveness of the drug:

• Microcrystalline cellulose
• Sodium croscarmellose
• Povidone
• Magnesium stearate
• Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose
• Polyethylene glycol
• Titanium dioxide

These ingredients help ensure proper absorption and delivery of the active substance to the body, and also give Valtrex tablets the necessary shape and stability.

How to use?

Valtrex should be used strictly according to the doctors recommendations, as the dosage and duration of treatment depend on the type of infection and the patients condition. The drug is usually taken orally with plenty of water. It is important to follow the prescribed schedule to ensure maximum effectiveness of the treatment.

Typical Valtrex dosage regimens include:

1. For the treatment of shingles: 1000 mg (1 tablet) 3 times daily for 7 days.
2. For the treatment of recurrent genital herpes: 500 mg 2 times daily for 3 days.
3. For suppressive therapy of recurrent herpes: 500 mg once daily (or 250 mg 2 times daily) for long-term use.
4. For the treatment of herpes labialis: 2000 mg (2 tablets) 2 times daily for one day, with 12 hours between doses.

It is important to remember that Valtrex works best if you start taking it at the first sign of infection (such as burning, itching, or tingling in the area of the rash). Skipping doses is not recommended, as this may reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.

How does it work?

Valtrex works by blocking the process of viral reproduction in the body. When the drug enters the bloodstream, its active substance valciclovir is quickly converted to acyclovir, an antiviral agent that directly affects viral cells. Acyclovir inhibits viral DNA polymerase, an enzyme that herpes viruses need to synthesize their genetic material and reproduce.

Thus, Valtrex slows the spread of the virus in the body, helping the immune system cope with the infection. This reduces the severity of symptoms and speeds up the recovery process. In addition, the drug reduces the likelihood of transmitting the virus to other people, which is especially important in the case of genital herpes. However, Valtrex does not completely destroy the virus, and it remains in the body in a latent form, which can lead to relapses in the future.

Indications

Valtrex is indicated for the treatment and prevention of various diseases caused by herpes viruses. The drug is successfully used both in the acute phase of the disease and to prevent relapses. The main indications for Valtrex include:

• Treatment of shingles (herpes zoster) to reduce pain and speed up healing of the rash.
• Treatment of recurrent genital herpes to shorten the duration of symptoms and reduce their severity.
• Prevention of recurrent genital herpes in people with frequent outbreaks.
• Treatment of cold sores (herpes labialis) at the first sign of infection.
• Reduction in the risk of transmission of genital herpes to sexual partners in people with established infection.

Valtrex may also be used in immunocompromised patients to prevent herpesvirus infections from developing, which may be more severe in them.

Contraindications

The use of Valtrex has a number of contraindications that must be taken into account before starting treatment. The drug may be unsafe for some groups of patients, so it is important to consult a doctor and familiarize yourself with possible restrictions. The main contraindications include:

• Hypersensitivity to valciclovir, acyclovir or any of the excipients of the drug.
• Severe renal impairment, especially if the dose of the drug cannot be adjusted according to creatinine levels.
• Severe liver disease, which can affect the metabolism of the drug and increase the risk of side effects.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding, if the potential benefit does not outweigh the possible risks to the fetus or child.
• Children (up to 12 years) for the treatment of shingles and up to 18 years for the prevention of relapses of genital herpes.

Before starting to take Valtrex, it is important to inform your doctor about all chronic diseases in order to exclude possible contraindications and avoid complications.

Side effects

Although Valtrex is considered an effective and safe drug, it can cause side effects in some patients. Most of these go away on their own and do not require stopping treatment, but it is important to be aware of possible reactions. The main side effects include:

• Headaches are the most common side effect, which can be mild or moderate in intensity.
• Nausea and gastrointestinal disorders, such as abdominal pain or diarrhea.
• Dizziness, especially with prolonged use or at high doses.
• Skin rashes and itching, which may indicate a possible allergic reaction to the drug.
• Fatigue and general weakness, which may be associated with the bodys reaction to a viral infection and treatment.

If side effects become severe or continue for a long time, you should consult a doctor. In rare cases, more serious reactions such as changes in kidney or liver function may occur, requiring immediate medical attention.