Valtrex, an antiviral drug, is prescribed for children and adults over the age of 12 who suffer from the symptoms of herpes. It may also be prescribed to treat chicken pox in children who over the age of 2. Effective as it may be in relieving the symptoms of these conditions, Valtrex also has some serious side effects that may give you second thoughts about taking it.
Commonly Occurring Side Effects
Valtrex produces common side effects that are of no real danger to you or your health. In most cases, they subside over a period of time. You may find headaches and stomach pain to be a problem when you first begin taking Valtrex. Depression may also occur, along with joint pain and dizziness. Nausea and vomiting, while unpleasant, are common as well. And women may experience painful menstrual cycles while on this medication.
Serious Side Effects
As stated above, Valtrex can cause some serious side effects that may adversely affect your health. These side effects include lower back pain, weight gain, shortness of breath, shakiness, feeling unsteady and seizures. Additionally, if you experience a loss of appetite or changes in your mood, have problems with your speech or vision or begin hallucinating, call your doctor at once.
Discontinue Use
Drugs.com recommends discontinuing Valtrex immediately if you begin to experience side effects more severe than those listed above. These include developing a fever, bruising or bleeding easily, bouts of diarrhea containing blood, feeling weak or fainting. If you notice red spots on your skin that are unrelated to either herpes or chicken pox, or notice a significant reduction in the amount you are urinating, you could be suffering from an extremely serious health condition because of Valtrex.
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