DRUG | SUPPLIED | DOSE | COMMENTS |
---|---|---|---|
VALACYCLOVIR (Paeds) (Valtrex) Mechanism of action: Antiviral agent. Prodrug of acyclovir that is rapidly converted to acyclovir after oral administration. Ref: 6, 44, 358, 359, 360, 631 Last update: 2022-09-13 |
tablet: 500 mg suspension (BCCH): 50 mg/mL |
Varicella zoster (Chickenpox) in Immunocompetent 2 to <18 yrs: 20 mg/kg/dose PO TID x 5 days. Maximum: 1 g/dose Herpes zoster (Shingles) Adolescents/Adults: 1 g PO TID x 7 days Mucocutaneous HSV Infection (from PK studies only, no clinical efficacy data) 3 mo to 12 yo: 10-20 mg/kg/dose PO BID to TID HSV or VZV Prophylaxis in Transplant Patients <40 kg: 250 mg PO BID >40 kg: 500 mg PO BID Genital HSV Infection in Adolescents or Adults Treatment: 1 g PO BID x 7-10 days Suppressive therapy: 500-1000 mg PO once daily Episodic therapy: 500 mg PO BID x 3 days Recurrent herpes labialis >=12 yrs: 2000 mg PO BID x 1 day |
Prodrug of acyclovir that is rapidly converted to acyclovir after oral administration. Bioavailability of 43-64%, compared to oral acyclovir bioavailability of 15-30%. For Varicella zoster (chicken pox) in immunocompetent patients, treatment must be started within 24 hr of rash for clinical benefit. Oral valacyclovir efficacy and safety has not been established in infants younger than two years of age, and overall clinical experience is limited in children. If the infection is considered potentially life threatening, IV acyclovir is the treatment of choice. Dosage adjustment is required in renal impairment. May cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, neurotoxicity, arthralgia, fatigue, rash, insomnia, fever. Standard Prescription: Valacyclovir __ mg PO ___ {frequency} x __ days |