VALACYCLOVIR is an antiviral agent. It is used to treat herpes zoster infection (shingles), genital herpes infection and cold sores. This medicine is not a cure. It will help the sores heal faster. It can also be used to suppress genital herpes infection. This medicine, in combination with safer sex practices, may reduce the risk of spreading herpes infection, but even with therapy, it is still possible to pass herpes infection on to your partner.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)
• any other condition that may weaken the immune system
• bone marrow or kidney transplant
• kidney disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to valacyclovir, acyclovir, ganciclovir, valganciclovir, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. You can take this medicine with or without food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your doctor or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

• cimetidine
• probenecid

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better after 1 week.

This medicine works best when taken early in the course of an infection, within the first 72 hours. Begin treatment as soon as possible after the first signs of infection like tingling, itching, or pain in the affected area.

It is possible that genital herpes may still be spread even when you are not having symptoms. Always use safer sex practices like condoms made of latex or polyurethane whenever you have sexual contact.

You should stay well hydrated while taking this medicine. Drink plenty of fluids.

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• aggressive behavior
• confusion
• hallucinations
• problems with balance, talking, walking
• stomach pain
• tremor
• trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• dizziness
• headache
• nausea, vomiting

This list may not describe all possible side effects.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.