Category:

• Antiviral

Description:

• Inhibits viral replication

  Indications:

• Acute herpes zoster (shingles)

• Genital herpes simplex treatment and prophylaxis

Precautions:

• Pregnancy category B

• Dosing modification is required for patients with impaired renal function.

• Patient may take medication with or without food.

• Avoid sexual contact when genital lesions are present.

• Medication treatment is not a cure for viral infection.

• Do not exceed recommended dose.

• Initiate therapy at earliest signs of symptoms.

  Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

• Headache (22%)

• Dizziness (3.3%)

• Fatigue (4.4%)

Nausea (12.5%)

Diarrhea (7.7%)

Dosage:

Administered as an oral tablet

Herpes zoster:

• 500mg q8h for 7 days

Genital herpes (recurrent episodes):

• 125mg bid for 5 days