(BETA) News Briefs: Valaciclovir (Valtrex) Approved for Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

(BETA) News Briefs: Valaciclovir (Valtrex) Approved for Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

Bulletin of Experimental Treatments for AIDS, No. 26 September 1995
Ronald Baker, PhD

FDA has approved valaciclovir (Valtex), a prodrug of acyclovir, for the treatment of herpes zoster (shingles) in immunocompetent adults. The drug is not recommended for use by immunocompromised individuals (people with HIV infection or bone marrow transplant or kidney transplant patients). Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/hemolytic uremic syndrome has been reported among these individuals following treatment with valaciclovir, sometimes resulting in death. Adverse reactions among immunocompetent people may include GI upset, constipation and headache. The drug is supplied in 500 mg caplets.

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