Medication use
Valacyclovir: Follow the Plan for This Outbreak
Valacyclovir schedules differ depending on the infection being treated, whether treatment is episodic or preventive, and kidney function. Do not copy a schedule from a previous illness or another person. Read the directions for the prescription you were given today.
What to do next
- Confirm what condition is being treated and when the first dose should be taken.
- Follow the prescribed amount, timing, and duration. Ask the pharmacist about a missed dose rather than doubling up.
- Tell the prescriber about kidney disease, dehydration, pregnancy, and other medicines.
- Ask what improvement to expect and when persistent or worsening symptoms need reassessment.
When to contact your care team
Contact a clinician promptly for confusion, hallucinations, reduced urination, or other significant new symptoms. Eye pain or a rash near the eye needs prompt assessment. Treatment does not eliminate the possibility of spreading herpes; follow the prevention advice for your diagnosis.
Put it into practice
If the bottle instructions differ from what you remember hearing, call the pharmacist or prescriber before taking the next uncertain dose. Keep the label with the medicine when traveling. For recurrent outbreaks, ask whether you should have a written plan for when symptoms first return.
Notes for your next visit
Write these in your own notes or on a printed copy. Bring them to your follow-up.
- Reason for treatment and start date:
- Exact schedule and planned last dose:
- Symptoms or exposure questions for follow-up:
Sources and further reading
General education for adults. Follow your clinician’s individual plan and the current instructions for your prescribed product. This handout is not a complete medication guide. If instructions conflict, ask your clinician or pharmacist to clarify. For a medical emergency, call 911.