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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Can Valacyclovir Be Taken For Mild Shingles?

Hello. I have had a mild shingles, for which my dermatologist prescribed Valacycin. I have a single refill. May have a single refill. Should I take it, as already prescribed, or do I wait until next week to see him again. It just started up again today...
Sat, 21 Jul 2018
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello and welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

Valacyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus to help the body fight the infection. Usual Adult Dose for Herpes Zoster in immunocompetent host is 1 g orally every 8 hours for 7 days. Some herpes infections may need to be treated for longer duration than others. Hence, kindly take the medication for the prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may increase the risk of virus becoming resistant to antiviral medication. Kindly take the medication as prescribed and do the necessary follow-up as advised.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
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Can Valacyclovir Be Taken For Mild Shingles?

Hello and welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. Valacyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus to help the body fight the infection. Usual Adult Dose for Herpes Zoster in immunocompetent host is 1 g orally every 8 hours for 7 days. Some herpes infections may need to be treated for longer duration than others. Hence, kindly take the medication for the prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may increase the risk of virus becoming resistant to antiviral medication. Kindly take the medication as prescribed and do the necessary follow-up as advised. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.