Valacyclovir (Valtrex) Side Effects

Side Effects of Valacyclovir (Valtrex)

Like other forms of antiretroviral drugs, Valacyclovir (the brand name is Valtrex) also has a set of side effects. These unwanted reactions are categorized into two, mild and severe. Expect to go through these reactions as you start with your Valacyclovir treatment.

List of side effects that require urgent medical care:

These are the types of side effects where immediate medical attention is necessary. Once you encounter any of the listed severe reactions, report them to your healthcare professional immediately:

• Irritability
• Extreme tiredness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Loss of appetite
• Chest pain
• Fever or chills
• Severe headaches
• Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin)
• Shortness of breath
• Lower back pain
• Black stools
• Bleeding gums
• Blurry vision
• Trouble swallowing
• Increased thirst and hunger
• Severe nausea
• Vomiting
• Drowsiness
• Dryness of the mouth
• Bloody urine
• Difficulty speaking
• Speech problems
• Stomach pains
• Anxiety
• Mood disorders
• Nervousness
• Skin redness
• Seizures
• Skin rashes
• Hives
• Swollen face, fingers, legs
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chest tightness
• Rapid weight gain
• Unexplained bruising
• Unusual bleeding

List of side effects that DO NOT require urgent medical care:

These are the side effects where urgent medical therapy is NOT necessary. Also, these are the most common ones that people experience. These unwanted reactions go away on their own once your body adjusts to this drug. Expect the following:

• Body pain
• Muscle cramps
• Loss of voice
• Muscle pain
• Stiffness
• Joint pain
• Sore throat
• Stuffy nose
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Hair loss
• Irritated eyes
• Skin sensitivity
• Sunburn
• Skin redness
• Mild headache
• Ear congestion

Note: The most common adverse reactions do not require immediate action since managing them at home is easy. However, if they persist and stay for a very long time, report your condition to your healthcare professional right away.