Proper Use of This Medicine

Valacyclovir works best if it is used within 48 hours after the first symptoms of shingles or genital herpes (for example, pain, burning, or blisters) begin to appear . For recurrent outbreaks of genital herpes, valacyclovir works best if it is used within 24 hours after the symptoms begin to appear.

Valacyclovir may be taken with meals.

Keep taking valacyclovir for the full time of treatment , even if your symptoms begin to clear up after a few days. Do not miss any doses . However, do not use this medicine more often or for a longer time than your doctor ordered .

Dosing—The dose of valacyclovir will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label . The following information includes only the average doses of valacyclovir. Your dose may be different if you have kidney disease. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

• For oral dosage form (tablets):
  • For treatment of genital herpes, first outbreak:
    • Adults—1 gram two times a day for ten days.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
  • For treatment of genital herpes, recurrent outbreaks:
    • Adults—500 milligrams (mg) two times a day for three days.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
  • To prevent recurrent outbreaks of genital herpes:
    • Adults—500 mg or 1 gram once a day.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
  • For treatment of shingles:
    • Adults—1 gram three times a day for seven days.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed dose—If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage—To store this medicine:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat and direct light.
• Do not store the tablets in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.
• Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.