Valacyclovir (Valtrex)

Antiviral

Dosing & Administration

Adult Dose

Shingles: 1000 mg PO TID x 7 days. Genital HSV: 1000 mg PO BID.

Pediatric Dose

20 mg/kg PO TID (for chickenpox).

Renal Adjustment

CrCl < 50: Reduce dose/extend interval heavily.

Hepatic Adjustment

No adjustment necessary.

Safety & Special Populations

Pregnancy Category

B

Lactation Safety

Compatible.

Contraindications & Adverse Effects

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity

Common Adverse Effects

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • TTP/HUS in advanced HIV/transplant patients