Centrex 500 MG (Valacyclovir)

Centrex 500 MG (Valacyclovir)

About Valcivir 500

Valcivir 500 is a branded antiviral medication that contains valacyclovir and is widely produced by the Indian pharmaceutical company Cipla.

What is valacyclovir?

Valacyclovir is an antiviral drug used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles (herpes zoster) in adults. It is also known as a drug of choice for viral infections because it helps to lower the activity of viruses and aids the body’s immune system in fighting off infection.

Valacyclovir is a prodrug, which means that it breaks down into acyclovir in the body and is utilised in the same manner by the body to fight against HSV.

Manufacturer Information

It is produced by Cipla, an Indian multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company based in Mumbai. Cipla is among the world’s largest producers of anti-retroviral drugs.

Strength

Valcivir 500 is a valacyclovir-based oral medication, which comes in tablet form of 500 mg.

Equivalent USA Brand

Its equivalent brand in the US is Valtrex and comes in 500 mg and 1000 mg.

Uses of Valcivir 500

Valcivir 500 is an antiviral drug which is used in the treatment of – what are the uses of Valcivir 500?

Herpes Simplex Infections: This is typically oral or genital and usually causes painful blisters and tingling sensations.

Herpes Zoster (Shingles): Infection caused by a nerve and skin virus.

Cytomegalovirus Infections

Chickenpox (Varicella Zoster)

Cold Sores

How Valcivir 500 Works?

Valcivir 500 is an antiviral drug which contains valacyclovir as the active ingredient, which is converted into acyclovir in the body. Acyclovir stops the spread of the herpes virus in the body by preventing it from replicating. This is what makes it effective for the infections mentioned.

How to Take Valcivir 500?

May be taken with or without eating.

The dosage needs to be adjusted according to the nature of the infection and at your doctor’s discretion.

Common Dosages

• Cold sores: 2000 mg every 12 hours for one day.
• Shingles (herpes zoster): 1 g taken three times a day for 7 days.
• For precise dosing and duration, always ask your doctor.

Important Guidelines

Duration of Treatment

Valaciclovir 500 needs to be taken with the doctor’s help, as it might cause further problems in patients. Follow your doctor’s instructions on when to start or stop treatment.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If you forget the medication for one day, do not take double doses in order to catch up.

Drug Interactions

Valacyclovir can interact with some other prescription drugs, including:

• Probenecid
• Cimetidine

When Not to Take?

Do not use if you are allergic to valacyclovir.

Call the doctor if severe symptoms occur during treatment.

Side Effects

Side effects can depend on the individual and the max dose. Serious side effects include:

• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Red spots on the skin
• Weakness, fainting, or paleness

Talk to your doctor if the side effects continue or become bothersome.

Overdose Effects

Overdosing on valacyclovir can cause:

• Fever
• Pale skin
• Coloured urine
• Red spots on the skin

Do not take the medicine more than once a day without consulting your doctor.

General Advice

Tell your doctor about all other drugs you are using.

Do not take more of this medicine than is recommended.

Take by mouth as directed by your doctor in order to obtain the best results from this medication.

Valcivir 500 FAQs