Although while there are no known drug interactions between caffeine and Valtrex, this does not mean that you won’t experience side effects when consuming caffeine while taking this medication. Both caffeine and Valtrex can cause a variety of side effects, and each may interact with other medications or supplements. See a doctor if you experience any side effect that is particularly bothersome or persistent.
About Valtrex
Valtrex, a brand name for the medication valacyclovir, treats genital herpes and herpes zoster. It also sometimes is prescribed off-label for other purposes, such as weight loss or as a treatment for other viral infections. Potential side effects of Valtrex include upset stomach, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea or loose stools and headaches. These side effects are typically harmless, but call a doctor if they are severe or do not get better after a few days. This medication may also cause serious side effects, including fever, jaundice, blood in the urine, confusion, itching or a rash. Call a doctor immediately if you experience any of these serious side effects while taking Valtrex.
Valtrex Interactions
Although Valtrex does not interact negatively with caffeine, it may interact negatively with certain supplements or other medications. Medications used to treat pain, arthritis and ulcerative colitis can interact negatively with Valtrex, as can antiviral medications, IV antibiotics and medications used to prevent an organ-transplant rejection. Specific medications with a known interaction with Valtrex include lithium and methotrexate. Check with a doctor to determine if Valtrex is safe to take if you regularly take any of these types of medications.
About Caffeine
Caffeine is found in beverages, medications and some foods. It works as a stimulant and speeds up central nervous system functions, including breathing and heart rate. It also provides an increase in energy and alertness. Although people can usually consume up to 200 milligrams a day without having any adverse reactions, consuming more than 500 milligrams of caffeine in a day makes side effects more likely. Side effects of caffeine vary depending on individual circumstances, but may include insomnia or impaired sleep, headaches, anxiety, increased sweating, nervousness, irritability, muscle tremors and gastrointestinal upset
Caffeine Interactions
While caffeine is unlikely to affect the effectiveness or side effects of Valtrex, it does interact negatively with other medications or supplements. Some medications that caffeine may affect include theophylline, trovafloxacin, rasagiline, ropivacaine, pimozide, nalidixic acid, methotrexate, thiabendazole, regadenoson, toporecan, mibefradil, levobupivacaine, fluvoxamine, grepafloxacin, ramelteon, riluzole, hydroxyprogesterone, melatonin, fentanyl, enoxacin, lithium, potassium iodine, tizanide, guaifensin, norfloxacin, ephendrine, dipyridamole, deferasirox, disulfiram, cimetidine, diazepam, clozapine, duloxetine, bendamustine, ciprofloxacin, nicotine, adenosine, angrelide, actetaminophen, alosetron, aspirin, atazanavir and asenapine. Talk to your doctor about the potential dangers of consuming caffeine with these medications.
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