Valacyclovir Dosing (Cont.)

 
Later Outbreaks
For the treatment of an outbreak of genital herpes (after the first infection), the dose of valacyclovir is 500 mg, twice a day, for three days.
 
Genital Herpes Suppression
When used to prevent future outbreaks of genital herpes, the dose of valacyclovir is 1000 mg (1 gram), once a day, every day. For people who have had fewer than 10 outbreaks of genital herpes in one year, the dose of valacyclovir may be decreased to 500 mg a day, taken in a single dose.
 
For people with HIV and genital herpes who have a CD4 cell count equal to or greater than 100 cells/mm3, the dose of valacyclovir used to prevent future outbreaks is 500 mg twice a day. Valacyclovir has not been studied in people with HIV who have a CD4 cell count of less than 100 cells/mm3.
 
Preventing the Spread of Genital Herpes
To decrease the chance of spreading genital herpes to sexual partners, people who have had fewer than 10 outbreaks per year can take valacyclovir 500 mg once a day. Valacyclovir has not been studied for this use in people who have 10 or more outbreaks per year. Safer sexual practices should still be used. Condoms should always be used, and sexual contact should be avoided while having an outbreak.
 

General Valacyclovir Dosage Information

Some considerations for people taking valacyclovir include the following:
 
  • Valacyclovir should be taken at the first sign of an outbreak. It works best if taken as early as possible. In fact, it may not work if taken too late.
     
  • Valacyclovir should be taken at the same time each day.
     
  • If you do not take your valacyclovir as scheduled, take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose of valacyclovir.
     
  • Your valacyclovir dosage can be taken with or without food. If valacyclovir bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
     
  • For valacyclovir to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. Valacyclovir will not work if you take it differently than your healthcare provider has prescribed.
     
  • If you are unsure about anything related to valacyclovir or your valacyclovir dosage, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. Do not stop taking valacyclovir without discussing it with your healthcare provider first.
     
  • The dose of valacyclovir is decreased for people who have poor renal function (kidney function). If you have kidney problems, ask your healthcare provider about which dose of valacyclovir you should be taking.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;