Genital and oral herpes is caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Infection with HSV causes outbreaks of sores on the genitalia, as well as in and around the mouth, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC also warns that people may be infected with HSV without their knowledge because of lack of symptoms, or because they mistake the sores for insect bites. The medication Valtrex (valacyclovir HCL) prevents herpes outbreaks, but comes with possible side effects.
TTP/HUS
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/hemolytic uremic syndrome, abbreviated as TTP/HUSO, is a serious side effect of the medication. In TTP/HUS, blood clots form in the small vessels of many organs, leading to organ failure. Signs of TTP/HUS include bleeding in the tissues or tiredness due to anemia. According to GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), the makers of Valtrex, TTP/HUS has affected patients suffering from advanced HIV disease as well as bone marrow and kidney transplant recipients. Some cases of TTP/HUS caused by Valtrex have resulted in death.
Acute Renal Failure
Another serious side effect of Valtrex is acute renal (kidney) failure. Renal failure occurs when the kidneys can no longer function, and shut down. GSK states that acute renal failure has occurred in elderly patients with decreased kidney function, patients with underlying kidney disease, patients receiving other nephrotoxic drugs (drugs that harm the kidneys) and patients who are not adequately hydrated.
Central Nervous System
Central nervous system Valtrex side effects include agitation, delirium, hallucination, confusion, seizures and encephalopathy (swelling in the brain). These symptoms can affect elderly patients and patients with underlying kidney problems.
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