Valtoval 1 Gm (3 Tab)

VALTOVAL 1 GM (3 TAB)

VALTOVAL 1 GM is an antiviral medication manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD. It is primarily used to combat various viral infections caused by the herpes virus family.

• Name:

  • Common Name: Valacyclovir (as Valacyclovir Hydrochloride)
  • Brand Name: Valtoval 1 GM, Valtoval 1g Tablet

• Composition:

  • Active Ingredient: Valacyclovir Hydrochloride 1000 mg (1 GM)

• Uses: VALTOVAL 1 GM is prescribed for the management and treatment of viral infections, including:

  • Shingles (Herpes Zoster), caused by the varicella-zoster virus.
  • Herpes simplex infections, such as cold sores (herpes labialis) and genital herpes.
  • Prevention of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and disease in patients who have undergone organ transplantation.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • Take VALTOVAL 1 GM in the dose and duration advised by your doctor.
  • It can be taken with or without food.
  • It is recommended to take it at the same time every day to maintain a consistent level in the blood.
  • Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew, crush, or break it.
  • Drink plenty of water during treatment to prevent dehydration and support kidney function.
  • Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor, even if symptoms improve.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Diarrhoea or other gastrointestinal disturbances (e.g., abdominal pain, constipation, bloating)
  • Dizziness

  Serious side effects, though rare, warrant immediate medical attention:

  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat, causing difficulty swallowing or breathing
  • Fever or severe chills
  • Confusion, hallucinations, drowsiness, agitation, seizures, or impaired consciousness

• Precautions:

  • Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, anaemia, other blood disorders, HIV infection, or have undergone organ transplantation.
  • Use with caution in elderly patients and those with kidney problems; dose adjustment may be necessary.
  • VALTOVAL 1 GM should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and only if necessary, as advised by your doctor.
  • Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience dizziness or decreased alertness.
  • Do not take if allergic to Valacyclovir or Acyclovir.

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool and dry place.
  • Protect from direct sunlight and moisture.
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children.
  • Typically stored below 30°C.

VALTOVAL 1 GM (3 TAB) contains Valacyclovir, an antiviral medication. Here are some frequently asked questions about this medicine:

What is VALTOVAL 1 GM used for?

VALTOVAL 1 GM is primarily used to treat viral infections caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). This includes cold sores (herpes labialis), genital herpes infections, and herpes zoster (shingles). It can also be used to prevent cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and disease following organ transplantation and sometimes for chickenpox, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

How does VALTOVAL 1 GM work?

VALTOVAL 1 GM contains valacyclovir, which is a prodrug that gets converted into its active form, acyclovir, within the body. Acyclovir works by preventing the multiplication of viruses in human cells. It inhibits the viral DNA polymerase enzyme, thereby disrupting the virus's ability to replicate its DNA. This action stops the proliferation of new viruses, helping to clear up the infection and reduce the severity and duration of outbreaks.

What is the usual dosage for VALTOVAL 1 GM?

The dosage of VALTOVAL 1 GM varies depending on the specific infection being treated and your doctor's assessment. For herpes infections, a typical adult dose might be 1 gram (1000 mg) taken twice daily. For shingles, it could be 1 gram three times a day for 7 days. For cold sores, sometimes a dose of 2 grams twice daily for one day is prescribed. It's crucial to follow your doctor's exact instructions regarding dose and duration. The tablet can be taken with or without food, but it is often recommended to take it at a consistent time each day.

What are the possible side effects of VALTOVAL 1 GM?

Common side effects of VALTOVAL 1 GM include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and sensitivity to sunlight. These side effects are usually mild and temporary. More severe but rare side effects can include unusual bleeding or bruising, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat (which may cause difficulty in swallowing or breathing), fever, severe chills, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, and signs of kidney problems. If you experience persistent or severe side effects, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Is VALTOVAL 1 GM safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

VALTOVAL 1 GM is classified as a Pregnancy Category B medicine. This means animal studies have shown no significant risk, but there are limited well-controlled studies in pregnant women. It should be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if clearly necessary and prescribed by a doctor, who will carefully weigh the potential benefits against any possible risks. It is not known whether it will pass through milk in breastfeeding women.

Can VALTOVAL 1 GM be taken with other medications?

VALTOVAL 1 GM may interact with certain other medications, especially those that affect kidney function. These include immunosuppressant medicines like mycophenolate mofetil, tacrolimus, and ciclosporin, as well as aminoglycosides, organoplatinum compounds, probenecid (used for gout), cimetidine (used for stomach problems), and NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). It is very important to inform your doctor about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking or plan to take to avoid potential drug interactions.

What precautions should be taken while taking VALTOVAL 1 GM?

Several precautions should be observed when taking VALTOVAL 1 GM. It is crucial to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and reduce the risk of kidney damage. Patients with kidney disease, liver disease, HIV infection, or those who have undergone an organ transplant should use this medication with caution, as dose adjustments may be necessary. If you experience dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery. Always complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully treated and prevent a relapse. If you have genital herpes, use protective measures during sexual intercourse to avoid transmitting the virus. Do not take VALTOVAL 1 GM if you are allergic to valacyclovir or acyclovir.

What happens if a dose of VALTOVAL 1 GM is missed?

If you miss a dose of VALTOVAL 1 GM, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

How should VALTOVAL 1 GM be stored?

VALTOVAL 1 GM should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. The ideal storage temperature is typically below 30°C (86°F). Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.