section name header

Pronunciation ⬇

val-ay-SYE-kloe-veer

Classifications ⬆ ⬇

Therapeutic Classification: antivirals

Indications ⬆ ⬇

REMS

Action ⬆ ⬇

  • Rapidly converted to acyclovir. Acyclovir interferes with viral DNA synthesis.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Inhibited viral replication, decreased viral shedding, reduced time to healing of lesions.
  • Reduced transmission of genital herpes.

Pharmacokinetics ⬆ ⬇

Absorption: 54% bioavailable as acyclovir after oral administration of valacyclovir.

Distribution: CSF concentrations of acyclovir are 50% of plasma concentrations.

Metabolism/Excretion: Rapidly converted to acyclovir via intestinal/hepatic metabolism. Primarily excreted in the urine as acyclovir.

Half-Life: 2.5–3.3 hr; up to 14 hr in renal impairment (acyclovir).

Time/Action Profile ⬆ ⬇

(plasma concentrations‡)
ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
POunknown1.5–2.5 hr8–24 hr



‡Acyclovir.

Contraind./Precautions ⬆ ⬇

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects ⬆ ⬇

GI: nausea, abdominal pain, anorexia, constipation, diarrhea

GU: crystalluria, RENAL FAILURE

Hemat: THROMBOTIC THROMBOCYTOPENIC PURPURA/HEMOLYTIC UREMIC SYNDROME (VERY HIGH DOSES IN IMMUNOSUPPRESSED PATIENTS)

Neuro: headache, agitation, confusion, delirium, dizziness, encephalopathy, hallucinations, SEIZURES, weakness

Interactions ⬆ ⬇

Drug-drug:

Route/Dosage ⬆ ⬇

Herpes Zoster

Renal Impairment

Genital Herpes

Renal Impairment

Herpes Labialis

Renal Impairment

Chickenpox

Availability ⬆ ⬇

(Generic available)

Assessment ⬆ ⬇

Implementation ⬆ ⬇

Patient/Family Teaching ⬆ ⬇

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes ⬆ ⬇

US Brand Names ⬆ ⬇

Valtrex

Code ⬆

NDC Code