Valacyclovir Hydrochloride Tablet, Film Coated
FDA Label NDC 70518-0541

Valacyclovir tablets are indicated for treatment of cold sores (herpes labialis). The efficacy of valacyclovir tablets initiated after the development of clinical signs of a cold sore (e.g., papule, vesicle or ulcer) has not been established.

Valacyclovir tablets are indicated for the treatment of cold sores (herpes labialis) in pediatric patients ≥ 12 years of age. The efficacy of valacyclovir tablets initiated after the development of clinical signs of a cold sore (e.g., papule, vesicle or ulcer) has not been established.

The recommended dosage of valacyclovir tablets for treatment of cold sores is 2 grams twice daily for 1 day taken 12 hours apart. Therapy should be initiated at the earliest symptom of a cold sore (e.g., tingling, itching or burning).

The recommended dosage of valacyclovir tablets for the treatment of cold sores in pediatric patients ≥ 12 years of age is 2 grams twice daily for 1 day taken 12 hours apart. Therapy should be initiated at the earliest symptom of a cold sore (e.g., tingling, itching or burning).

In clinical studies for the treatment of cold sores, the adverse reactions reported by patients receiving valacyclovir 2 grams twice daily (n = 609) or placebo (n = 609) for one day, respectively, included headache (14%, 10%) and dizziness (2%, 1%). The frequencies of abnormal ALT (> 2 x ULN) were 1.8% for patients receiving valacyclovir compared with 0.8% for placebo. Other laboratory abnormalities (hemoglobin, white blood cells, alkaline phosphatase and serum creatinine) occurred with similar frequencies in the two groups.

Valacyclovir tablets are indicated for treatment of the initial episode of genital herpes in immunocompetent adults. The efficacy of treatment with valacyclovir tablets when initiated more than 72 hours after the onset of signs and symptoms has not been established.

The recommended dosage of valacyclovir tablets for treatment of initial genital herpes is 1 gram twice daily for 10 days. Therapy was most effective when administered within 48 hours of the onset of signs and symptoms.

In a clinical study for the treatment of initial episodes of genital herpes, the adverse reactions reported by ≥ 5% of patients receiving valacyclovir 1 gram twice daily for 10 days (n = 318) or oral acyclovir 200 mg 5 times daily for 10 days (n = 318), respectively, included headache (13%, 10%) and nausea (6%, 6%). For the incidence of laboratory abnormalities see Table 2.

Six hundred forty-three immunocompetent adults with first-episode genital herpes who presented within 72 hours of symptom onset were randomized in a double-blind trial to receive 10 days of valacyclovir 1 gram twice daily (n = 323) or oral acyclovir 200 mg 5 times a day (n = 320). For both treatment groups: the median time to lesion healing was 9 days, the median time to cessation of pain was 5 days, the median time to cessation of viral shedding was 3 days.

Valacyclovir tablets are indicated for treatment of recurrent episodes of genital herpes in immunocompetent adults. The efficacy of treatment with valacyclovir tablets when initiated more than 24 hours after the onset of signs and symptoms has not been established.

The recommended dosage of valacyclovir tablets for treatment of recurrent genital herpes is 500 mg twice daily for 3 days. Initiate treatment at the first sign or symptom of an episode.

In three clinical studies for the episodic treatment of recurrent genital herpes, the adverse reactions reported by ≥ 5% of patients receiving valacyclovir 500 mg twice daily for 3 days (n = 402), valacyclovir 500 mg twice daily for 5 days (n = 1,136) or placebo (n = 259), respectively, included headache (16%, 11%, 14%) and nausea (5%, 4%, 5%). For the incidence of laboratory abnormalities see Table 2.

Three double-blind trials (two of them placebo-controlled) in immunocompetent adults with recurrent genital herpes were conducted. Patients self-initiated therapy within 24 hours of the first sign or symptom of a recurrent genital herpes episode.

In 1 study, patients were randomized to receive 5 days of treatment with either valacyclovir 500 mg twice daily (n = 360) or placebo (n = 259). The median time to lesion healing was 4 days in the group receiving valacyclovir 500 mg versus 6 days in the placebo group, and the median time to cessation of viral shedding in patients with at least one positive culture (42% of the overall study population) was 2 days in the group receiving valacyclovir 500 mg versus 4 days in the placebo group. The median time to cessation of pain was 3 days in the group receiving valacyclovir 500 mg versus 4 days in the placebo group. Results supporting efficacy were replicated in a second trial.

In a third study, patients were randomized to receive valacyclovir 500 mg twice daily for 5 days (n = 398) or valacyclovir 500 mg twice daily for 3 days (and matching placebo twice daily for 2 additional days) (n = 402). The median time to lesion healing was about 4½ days in both treatment groups. The median time to cessation of pain was about 3 days in both treatment groups.

Valacyclovir tablets are indicated for chronic suppressive therapy of recurrent episodes of genital herpes in immunocompetent and in HIV-infected adults. The efficacy and safety of valacyclovir tablets for the suppression of genital herpes beyond one year in immunocompetent patients and beyond 6 months in HIV-infected patients have not been established.

The recommended dosage of valacyclovir tablets for chronic suppressive therapy of recurrent genital herpes is 1 gram once daily in patients with normal immune function. In patients with a history of nine or fewer recurrences per year, an alternative dose is 500 mg once daily.

In HIV-infected patients with a CD4+ cell count ≥ 100 cells/mm ³, the recommended dosage of valacyclovir tablets for chronic suppressive therapy of recurrent genital herpes is 500 mg twice daily.

Two clinical studies were conducted, one in immunocompetent adults and one in HIV-infected adults.

A double-blind, 12-month, placebo- and active-controlled study enrolled immunocompetent adults with a history of six or more recurrences per year. Outcomes for the overall study population are shown in Table 5.

Subjects with nine or fewer recurrences per year showed comparable results with valacyclovir 500 mg once daily.

In a second study, 293 HIV-infected adults on stable antiretroviral therapy with a history of four or more recurrences of ano-genital herpes per year were randomized to receive either valacyclovir 500 mg twice daily (n = 194) or matching placebo (n = 99) for 6 months. The median duration of recurrent genital herpes in enrolled subjects was 8 years, and the median number of recurrences in the year prior to enrollment was five. Overall, the median prestudy HIV-1 RNA was 2.6 log ₁₀ copies/mL. Among patients who received valacyclovir, the prestudy median CD4+ cell count was 336 cells/mm ³; 11% had < 100 cells/mm ³, 16% had 100 to 199 cells/mm ³, 42% had 200 to 499 cells/mm ³ and 31% had ≥ 500 cells/mm ³. Outcomes for the overall study population are shown in Table 6.

Valacyclovir tablets are indicated for the reduction of transmission of genital herpes in immunocompetent adults. The efficacy of valacyclovir tablets for the reduction of transmission of genital herpes beyond 8 months in discordant couples has not been established. The efficacy of valacyclovir tablets for the reduction of transmission of genital herpes in individuals with multiple partners and non-heterosexual couples has not been established. Safer sex practices should be used with suppressive therapy (see current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines).

The recommended dosage of valacyclovir tablets for reduction of transmission of genital herpes in patients with a history of nine or fewer recurrences per year is 500 mg once daily for the source partner.

In a clinical study for the reduction of transmission of genital herpes, the adverse reactions reported by patients receiving valacyclovir 500 mg once daily (n = 743) or placebo once daily (n = 741), respectively, included headache (29%, 26%), nasopharyngitis (16%, 15%) and upper respiratory tract infection (9%, 10%).

Valacyclovir tablets are indicated for the treatment of herpes zoster (shingles) in immunocompetent adults. The efficacy of valacyclovir tablets when initiated more than 72 hours after the onset of rash and the efficacy and safety of valacyclovir tablets for treatment of disseminated herpes zoster have not been established.

The recommended dosage of valacyclovir tablets for treatment of herpes zoster is 1 gram 3 times daily for 7 days. Therapy should be initiated at the earliest sign or symptom of herpes zoster and is most effective when started within 48 hours of the onset of rash.

In two clinical studies for the treatment of herpes zoster, the adverse reactions reported by patients receiving valacyclovir 1 gram 3 times daily for 7 to 14 days (n = 967) or placebo (n = 195), respectively, included nausea (15%, 8%), headache (14%, 12%), vomiting (6%, 3%), dizziness (3%, 2%) and abdominal pain (3%, 2%). For the incidence of laboratory abnormalities see Table 2.

Valacyclovir tablets are indicated for the treatment of chickenpox in immunocompetent pediatric patients 2 to < 18 years of age. Based on efficacy data from clinical studies with oral acyclovir, treatment with valacyclovir tablets should be initiated within 24 hours after the onset of rash [see Clinical Studies (14.4)].

The recommended dosage of valacyclovir tablets for treatment of chickenpox in immunocompetent pediatric patients 2 to < 18 years of age is 20 mg/kg administered three times daily for 5 days. The total dose should not exceed 1 gram 3 times daily. Therapy should be initiated at the earliest sign or symptom [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3), Clinical Studies (14.4)].

The efficacy and safety of valacyclovir tablets have not been established in:

• Immunocompromised patients other than for the suppression of genital herpes in HIV-infected patients with a CD4+ cell count ≥ 100 cells/mm ³.
• Patients < 12 years of age with cold sores (herpes labialis).
• Patients < 2 years of age or ≥ 18 years of age with chickenpox.
• Patients < 18 years of age with genital herpes.
• Patients < 18 years of age with herpes zoster.
• Neonates and infants as suppressive therapy following neonatal herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection.

• Valacyclovir tablets may be given without regard to meals.
• Valacyclovir oral suspension (25 mg/mL or 50 mg/mL) may be prepared extemporaneously from 500 mg valacyclovir tablets for use in pediatric patients for whom a solid dosage form is not appropriate [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)] .

Valacyclovir tablets 500 mg, cherry flavor, and Suspension Structured Vehicle USP-NF (SSV). Valacyclovir oral suspension (25 mg/mL or
50 mg/mL) should be prepared in lots of 100 mL.

• Prepare SSV according to the USP-NF.
• Using a pestle and mortar, grind the required number of valacyclovir 500 mg tablets until a fine powder is produced (five valacyclovir tablets for 25 mg/mL suspension; ten valacyclovir tablets for 50 mg/mL suspension).
• Gradually add approximately 5 mL aliquots of SSV to the mortar and triturate the powder until a paste has been produced. Ensure that the powder has been adequately wetted.
• Continue to add approximately 5 mL aliquots of SSV to the mortar, mixing thoroughly between additions, until a concentrated suspension is produced, to a minimum total quantity of 20 mL SSV and a maximum total quantity of 40 mL SSV for both the 25 mg/mL and 50 mg/mL suspensions.
• Transfer the mixture to a suitable 100 mL measuring flask.
• Transfer the cherry flavor* to the mortar and dissolve in approximately 5 mL of SSV. Once dissolved, add to the measuring flask.
• Rinse the mortar at least three times with approximately 5 mL aliquots of SSV, transferring the rinsing to the measuring flask between additions.
• Make the suspension to volume (100 mL) with SSV and shake thoroughly to mix.
• Transfer the suspension to an amber glass medicine bottle with a child-resistant closure.
• The prepared suspension should be labeled with the following information “Shake well before using. Store suspension between 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) in a refrigerator. Discard after 28 days.”

*The amount of cherry flavor added is as instructed by the suppliers of the cherry flavor.

Dosage recommendations for adult patients with reduced renal function are provided in Table 1 [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5, 8.6), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . Data are not available for the use of valacyclovir tablets in pediatric patients with a creatinine clearance < 50 mL/min/1.73 m ².

Patients requiring hemodialysis should receive the recommended dose of valacyclovir tablets after hemodialysis. During hemodialysis, the half-life of acyclovir after administration of valacyclovir tablets is approximately 4 hours. About one third of acyclovir in the body is removed by dialysis during a 4 hour hemodialysis session.

There is no information specific to administration of valacyclovir tablets in patients receiving peritoneal dialysis. The effect of chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) and continuous arteriovenous hemofiltration/dialysis (CAVHD) on acyclovir pharmacokinetics has been studied. The removal of acyclovir after CAPD and CAVHD is less pronounced than with hemodialysis, and the pharmacokinetic parameters closely resemble those observed in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) not receiving hemodialysis. Therefore, supplemental doses of valacyclovir tablets should not be required following CAPD or CAVHD.

Tablets:

• 500 mg: white, film-coated, oval shaped tablets imprinted with M122 in black ink on one side and blank on the other side.
• 1 gram: white, film-coated, oval shaped tablets with a partial break line on both sides, imprinted with M123 in black ink  on one side of the tablet and blank on the other side.

Valacyclovir tablets are contraindicated in patients who have had a demonstrated clinically significant hypersensitivity reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to valacyclovir, acyclovir or any component of the formulation [see Adverse Reactions (6.3)] .

TTP/HUS, in some cases resulting in death, has occurred in patients with advanced HIV disease and also in allogeneic bone marrow transplant and renal transplant recipients participating in clinical trials of valacyclovir at doses of 8 grams per day. Treatment with valacyclovir should be stopped immediately if clinical signs, symptoms and laboratory abnormalities consistent with TTP/HUS occur.

Cases of acute renal failure have been reported in:

• Elderly patients with or without reduced renal function. Caution should be exercised when administering valacyclovir to geriatric patients and dosage reduction is recommended for those with impaired renal function [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Use in Specific Populations (8.5)] .
• Patients with underlying renal disease who received higher than recommended doses of valacyclovir for their level of renal function. Dosage reduction is recommended when administering valacyclovir to patients with renal impairment [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].
• Patients receiving other nephrotoxic drugs. Caution should be exercised when administering valacyclovir to patients receiving potentially nephrotoxic drugs.
• Patients without adequate hydration. Precipitation of acyclovir in renal tubules may occur when the solubility (2.5 mg/mL) is exceeded in the intratubular fluid. Adequate hydration should be maintained for all patients.

In the event of acute renal failure and anuria, the patient may benefit from hemodialysis until renal function is restored [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Adverse Reactions (6.3)] .

Central nervous system adverse reactions, including agitation, hallucinations, confusion, delirium, seizures and encephalopathy, have been reported in both adult and pediatric patients with or without reduced renal function and in patients with underlying renal disease who received higher than recommended doses of valacyclovir for their level of renal function. Elderly patients are more likely to have central nervous system adverse reactions. Valacyclovir should be discontinued if central nervous system adverse reactions occur [see Adverse Reactions (6.3), Use in Specific Populations (8.5, 8.6)] .

The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling:

• Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura/Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
• Acute Renal Failure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] .
• Central Nervous System Effects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] .

The most common adverse reactions reported in at least one indication by > 10% of adult patients treated with valacyclovir and observed more frequently with valacyclovir compared to placebo are headache, nausea and abdominal pain. The only adverse reaction reported in > 10% of pediatric patients < 18 years of age was headache.

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

In a clinical study for the suppression of recurrent genital herpes infections, the adverse reactions reported by patients receiving valacyclovir 1 gram once daily (n = 269), valacyclovir 500 mg once daily (n = 266), or placebo (n = 134), respectively, included headache (35%, 38%; 34%), nausea (11%, 11%, 8%), abdominal pain (11%, 9%, 6%), dysmenorrhea (8%, 5%, 4%), depression (7%, 5%, 5%), arthralgia (6%, 5%, 4%), vomiting (3%, 3%, 2%) and dizziness (4%, 2%, 1%). For the incidence of laboratory abnormalities see Table 2.

In HIV-infected patients, frequently reported adverse reactions for valacyclovir (500 mg twice daily; n = 194, median days on therapy = 172) and placebo (n = 99, median days on therapy = 59), respectively, included headache (13%, 8%), fatigue (8%, 5%) and rash (8%, 1%). Post-randomization laboratory abnormalities that were reported more frequently in valacyclovir subjects versus placebo included elevated alkaline phosphatase (4%, 2%), elevated ALT (14%, 10%), elevated AST (16%, 11%), decreased neutrophil counts (18%, 10%) and decreased platelet counts (3%, 0%), respectively.

The safety profile of valacyclovir has been studied in 177 pediatric patients 1 month to < 18 years of age. Sixty-five of these pediatric patients, 12 to < 18 years of age, received oral caplets for 1 to 2 days for treatment of cold sores. The remaining 112 pediatric patients, 1 month to < 12 years of age, participated in three pharmacokinetic and safety studies and received valacyclovir oral suspension. Fifty-one of these 112 pediatric patients received oral suspension for 3 to 6 days. The frequency, intensity, and nature of clinical adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities were similar to those seen in adults.

In clinical studies for the treatment of cold sores, the adverse reactions reported by adolescent patients receiving valacyclovir 2 grams twice daily for 1 day, or valacyclovir 2 grams twice daily for 1 day followed by 1 gram twice daily for 1 day (n = 65, across both dosing groups) or placebo (n = 30), respectively, included headache (17%, 3%) and nausea (8%, 0%).

Adverse events reported in more than one subject across the three pharmacokinetic and safety studies in children 1 month to < 12 years of age were diarrhea (5%), pyrexia (4%), dehydration (2%), herpes simplex (2%) and rhinorrhea (2%). No clinically meaningful changes in laboratory values were observed.

In addition to adverse events reported from clinical trials, the following events have been identified during post-marketing use of valacyclovir. Because they are reported voluntarily from a population of unknown size, estimates of frequency cannot be made. These events have been chosen for inclusion due to a combination of their seriousness, frequency of reporting or potential causal connection to valacyclovir.

General: Facial edema, hypertension, tachycardia.

Allergic: Acute hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis, angioedema, dyspnea, pruritus, rash and urticaria [see Contraindications (4)] .

CNS Symptoms: Aggressive behavior; agitation; ataxia; coma; confusion; decreased consciousness; dysarthria; encephalopathy; mania; and psychosis, including auditory and visual hallucinations, seizures, tremors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3), Use in Specific Populations (8.5), (8.6)].

Eye:  Visual abnormalities.

Gastrointestinal:  Diarrhea.

Hepatobiliary Tract and Pancreas: Liver enzyme abnormalities, hepatitis.

Renal:  Renal failure, renal pain (may be associated with renal failure) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2), Use in Specific Populations (8.5), (8.6)] .

Hematologic:  Thrombocytopenia, aplastic anemia, leukocytoclastic vasculitis, TTP/HUS [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] .

Skin: Erythema multiforme, rashes including photosensitivity, alopecia.

No clinically significant drug-drug or drug-food interactions with valacyclovir are known [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

There are no adequate and well controlled studies of valacyclovir or acyclovir in pregnant women. Based on prospective pregnancy registry data on 749 pregnancies, the overall rate of birth defects in infants exposed to acyclovir in utero appears similar to the rate for infants in the general population. Valacyclovir should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

A prospective epidemiologic registry of acyclovir use during pregnancy was established in 1984 and completed in April 1999. There were 749 pregnancies followed in women exposed to systemic acyclovir during the first trimester of pregnancy resulting in 756 outcomes. The occurrence rate of birth defects approximates that found in the general population. However, the small size of the registry is insufficient to evaluate the risk for less common defects or to permit reliable or definitive conclusions regarding the safety of acyclovir in pregnant women and their developing fetuses.

Animal reproduction studies performed at oral doses that provided up to 10 and 7 times the human plasma levels during the period of major organogenesis in rats and rabbits, respectively, revealed no evidence of teratogenicity.

Following oral administration of a 500 mg dose of valacyclovir to five nursing mothers, peak acyclovir concentrations (C _max) in breast milk ranged from 0.5 to 2.3 times (median 1.4) the corresponding maternal acyclovir serum concentrations. The acyclovir breast milk AUC ranged from 1.4 to 2.6 times (median 2.2) maternal serum AUC. A 500 mg maternal dosage of valacyclovir twice daily would provide a nursing infant with an oral acyclovir dosage of approximately 0.6 mg/kg/day. This would result in less than 2% of the exposure obtained after administration of a standard neonatal dose of 30 mg/kg/day of intravenous acyclovir to the nursing infant. Unchanged valacyclovir was not detected in maternal serum, breast milk or infant urine. Caution should be exercised when valacyclovir is administered to a nursing woman.

Valacyclovir is indicated for treatment of cold sores in pediatric patients ≥ 12 years of age and for treatment of chickenpox in pediatric patients 2 to < 18 years of age [see Indications and Usage (1.2), Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

The use of valacyclovir for treatment of cold sores is based on two double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials in healthy adults and adolescents (≥ 12 years of age) with a history of recurrent cold sores [see Clinical Studies (14.1)] .

The use of valacyclovir for treatment of chickenpox in pediatric patients 2 to < 18 years of age is based on single-dose pharmacokinetic and multiple-dose safety data from an open-label trial with valacyclovir and supported by efficacy and safety data from three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials evaluating oral acyclovir in pediatric patients with chickenpox [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Adverse Reactions (6.2), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3), Clinical Studies (14.4)].

The efficacy and safety of valacyclovir have not been established in pediatric patients:

• < 12 years of age with cold sores
• < 18 years of age with genital herpes
• < 18 years of age with herpes zoster
• < 2 years of age with chickenpox
• for suppressive therapy following neonatal HSV infection.

The pharmacokinetic profile and safety of valacyclovir oral suspension in children < 12 years of age were studied in three open-label studies. No efficacy evaluations were conducted in any of the three studies.

Study 1 was a single-dose pharmacokinetic, multiple-dose safety study in 27 pediatric patients 1 to < 12 years of age with clinically suspected varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Adverse Reactions (6.2), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3), Clinical Studies (14.4)] .

Study 2 was a single-dose pharmacokinetic and safety study in pediatric patients 1 month to < 6 years of age who had an active herpes virus infection or who were at risk for herpes virus infection. Fifty-seven subjects were enrolled and received a single dose of 25 mg/kg valacyclovir oral suspension. In infants and children 3 months to < 6 years of age, this dose provided comparable systemic acyclovir exposures to that from a 1 gram dose of valacyclovir in adults (historical data). In infants 1 month to < 3 months of age, mean acyclovir exposures resulting from a 25 mg/kg dose were higher (C _max: ↑30%, AUC: ↑60%) than acyclovir exposures following a 1 gram dose of valacyclovir in adults. Acyclovir is not approved for suppressive therapy in infants and children following neonatal HSV infections; therefore valacyclovir is not recommended for this indication because efficacy cannot be extrapolated from acyclovir.

Study 3 was a single-dose pharmacokinetic, multiple-dose safety study in 28 pediatric patients 1 to < 12 years of age with clinically suspected HSV infection. None of the children enrolled in this study had genital herpes. Each subject was dosed with valacyclovir oral suspension, 10 mg/kg twice daily for 3 to 5 days. Acyclovir systemic exposures in pediatric patients following valacyclovir oral suspension were compared with historical acyclovir systemic exposures in immunocompetent adults receiving the solid oral dosage form of valacyclovir or acyclovir for the treatment of recurrent genital herpes. The mean projected daily acyclovir systemic exposures in pediatric patients across all age-groups (1 to < 12 years of age) were lower (C _max: ↓20%, AUC: ↓33%) compared with the acyclovir systemic exposures in adults receiving valacyclovir 500 mg twice daily, but were higher (daily AUC: ↑16%) than systemic exposures in adults receiving acyclovir 200 mg 5 times daily. Insufficient data are available to support valacyclovir for the treatment of recurrent genital herpes in this age-group because clinical information on recurrent genital herpes in young children is limited; therefore, extrapolating efficacy data from adults to this population is not possible. Moreover, valacyclovir has not been studied in children 1 to < 12 years of age with recurrent genital herpes.

Of the total number of subjects in clinical studies of valacyclovir, 906 were 65 and over, and 352 were 75 and over. In a clinical study of herpes zoster, the duration of pain after healing (post-herpetic neuralgia) was longer in patients 65 and older compared with younger adults. Elderly patients are more likely to have reduced renal function and require dose reduction. Elderly patients are also more likely to have renal or CNS adverse events [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.3), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] .

Dosage reduction is recommended when administering valacyclovir to patients with renal impairment [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.3)].

Caution should be exercised to prevent inadvertent overdose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5), (8.6)] . Precipitation of acyclovir in renal tubules may occur when the solubility (2.5 mg/mL) is exceeded in the intratubular fluid. In the event of acute renal failure and anuria, the patient may benefit from hemodialysis until renal function is restored [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)] .

Valacyclovir hydrochloride is the hydrochloride salt of the L-valyl ester of the antiviral drug acyclovir.

Valacyclovir tablets, USP are for oral administration. Each tablet contains valacyclovir hydrochloride, USP equivalent to 500 mg or 1 gram valacyclovir and the inactive ingredients hypromellose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol and titanium dioxide. The white film-coated tablets are printed with edible black ink which contains ammonium hydroxide, black iron oxide, propylene glycol and shellac glaze.

The chemical name of valacyclovir hydrochloride is L-valine, 2-[(2-amino-1,6-dihydro-6-oxo-9 H-purin-9-yl)methoxy]ethyl ester, monohydrochloride. It has the following structural formula:

Valacyclovir hydrochloride, USP is a white to off-white powder with the molecular formula C ₁₃H ₂₀N ₆O ₄•HCl and a molecular weight of 360.80. The maximum solubility in water at 25°C is 174 mg/mL. The pk _as for valacyclovir hydrochloride are 1.90, 7.47 and 9.43.

Valacyclovir is an antiviral drug [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.4)].

The pharmacokinetics of valacyclovir and acyclovir after oral administration of valacyclovir has been investigated in 14 volunteer studies involving 283 adults and in three studies involving 112 pediatric subjects from 1 month to < 12 years of age.

After oral administration, valacyclovir hydrochloride is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and nearly completely converted to acyclovir and L-valine by first-pass intestinal and/or hepatic metabolism.

The absolute bioavailability of acyclovir after administration of valacyclovir is 54.5% ± 9.1% as determined following a 1 gram oral dose of valacyclovir and a 350 mg intravenous acyclovir dose to 12 healthy volunteers. Acyclovir bioavailability from the administration of valacyclovir is not altered by administration with food (30 minutes after an 873 Kcal breakfast, which included 51 grams of fat).

Acyclovir pharmacokinetic parameter estimates following administration of valacyclovir to healthy adult volunteers are presented in Table 3. There was a less than dose proportional increase in acyclovir maximum concentration (C _max) and area under the acyclovir concentration-time curve (AUC) after single-dose and multiple-dose administration (4 times daily) of valacyclovir from doses between 250 mg to 1 gram.

There is no accumulation of acyclovir after the administration of valacyclovir at the recommended dosage regimens in adults with normal renal function.

The binding of valacyclovir to human plasma proteins ranges from 13.5% to 17.9%. The binding of acyclovir to human plasma proteins ranges from 9% to 33%.

Valacyclovir is converted to acyclovir and L-valine by first-pass intestinal and/or hepatic metabolism. Acyclovir is converted to a small extent to inactive metabolites by aldehyde oxidase and by alcohol and aldehyde dehydrogenase. Neither valacyclovir nor acyclovir is metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes. Plasma concentrations of unconverted valacyclovir are low and transient, generally becoming non-quantifiable by 3 hours after administration. Peak plasma valacyclovir concentrations are generally less than 0.5 mcg/mL at all doses. After single-dose administration of 1 gram of valacyclovir, average plasma valacyclovir concentrations observed were 0.5, 0.4 and 0.8 mcg/mL in patients with hepatic dysfunction, renal insufficiency and in healthy volunteers who received concomitant cimetidine and probenecid, respectively.

The pharmacokinetic disposition of acyclovir delivered by valacyclovir is consistent with previous experience from intravenous and oral acyclovir. Following the oral administration of a single 1 gram dose of radiolabeled valacyclovir to four healthy subjects, 46% and 47% of administered radioactivity was recovered in urine and feces, respectively, over 96 hours. Acyclovir accounted for 89% of the radioactivity excreted in the urine. Renal clearance of acyclovir following the administration of a single 1 gram dose of valacyclovir to 12 healthy volunteers was approximately 255 ± 86 mL/min which represents 42% of total acyclovir apparent plasma clearance.

The plasma elimination half-life of acyclovir typically averaged 2.5 to 3.3 hours in all studies of valacyclovir in volunteers with normal renal function.

Reduction in dosage is recommended in patients with renal impairment [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Use in Specific Populations (8.5), (8.6)].

Following administration of valacyclovir to volunteers with ESRD, the average acyclovir half-life is approximately 14 hours. During hemodialysis, the acyclovir half-life is approximately 4 hours. Approximately one third of acyclovir in the body is removed by dialysis during a 4-hour hemodialysis session. Apparent plasma clearance of acyclovir in dialysis patients was 86.3 ± 21.3 mL/min/1.73 m ² compared with 679.16 ± 162.76 mL/min/1.73 m ² in healthy volunteers.

Administration of valacyclovir to patients with moderate (biopsy-proven cirrhosis) or severe (with and without ascites and biopsy-proven cirrhosis) liver disease indicated that the rate but not the extent of conversion of valacyclovir to acyclovir is reduced and the acyclovir half-life is not affected. Dosage modification is not recommended for patients with cirrhosis.

In nine patients with HIV disease and CD4+ cell counts < 150 cells/mm ³ who received valacyclovir at a dosage of 1 gram 4 times daily for 30 days, the pharmacokinetics of valacyclovir and acyclovir were not different from that observed in healthy volunteers.

After single dose administration of 1 gram of valacyclovir in healthy geriatric volunteers, the half-life of acyclovir was 3.11 ± 0.51 hours, compared with 2.91 ± 0.63 hours in healthy younger adult volunteers. The pharmacokinetics of acyclovir following single and multiple dose oral administration of valacyclovir in geriatric volunteers varied with renal function. Dose reduction may be required in geriatric patients, depending on the underlying renal status of the patient [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Use in Specific Populations (8.5), (8.6)] .

Acyclovir pharmacokinetics have been evaluated in a total of 98 pediatric patients
(1 month to < 12 years of age) following administration of the first dose of an extemporaneous oral suspension of valacyclovir [see Adverse Reactions (6.2), Use in Specific Populations (8.4)] . Acyclovir pharmacokinetic parameter estimates following a 20 mg/kg dose are provided in Table 4.

When valacyclovir is coadministered with antacids, cimetidine and/or probenicid, digoxin or thiazide diuretics in patients with normal renal function, the effects are not considered to be of clinical significance (see below). Therefore, when valacyclovir is coadministered with these drugs in patients with normal renal function, no dosage adjustment is recommended.

Antacids: The pharmacokinetics of acyclovir after a single dose of valacyclovir (1 gram) was unchanged by coadministration of a single dose of antacids (Al ³⁺ or Mg ⁺⁺).

Cimetidine: Acyclovir C _max and AUC following a single dose of valacyclovir (1 gram) increased by 8% and 32%, respectively, after a single dose of cimetidine (800 mg).

Cimetidine Plus Probenecid: Acyclovir C _max and AUC following a single dose of valacyclovir (1 gram) increased by 30% and 78%, respectively, after a combination of cimetidine and probenecid, primarily due to a reduction in renal clearance of acyclovir.

Digoxin: The pharmacokinetics of digoxin were not affected by coadministration of valacyclovir 1 gram 3 times daily, and the pharmacokinetics of acyclovir after a single dose of valacyclovir (1 gram) was unchanged by coadministration of digoxin (2 doses of 0.75 mg).

Probenecid: Acyclovir C _max and AUC following a single dose of valacyclovir (1 gram) increased by 22% and 49%, respectively, after probenecid (1 gram).

Thiazide Diuretics: The pharmacokinetics of acyclovir after a single dose of valacyclovir (1 gram) was unchanged by coadministration of multiple doses of thiazide diuretics.

Valacyclovir is a nucleoside analogue DNA polymerase inhibitor. Valacyclovir hydrochloride is rapidly converted to acyclovir which has demonstrated antiviral activity against HSV types 1 (HSV-1) and 2 (HSV-2) and VZV both in cell culture and in vivo.

The inhibitory activity of acyclovir is highly selective due to its affinity for the enzyme thymidine kinase (TK) encoded by HSV and VZV. This viral enzyme converts acyclovir into acyclovir monophosphate, a nucleotide analogue. The monophosphate is further converted into diphosphate by cellular guanylate kinase and into triphosphate by a number of cellular enzymes. In biochemical assays, acyclovir triphosphate inhibits replication of herpes viral DNA. This is accomplished in three ways: 1) competitive inhibition of viral DNA polymerase, 2) incorporation and termination of the growing viral DNA chain and 3) inactivation of the viral DNA polymerase. The greater antiviral activity of acyclovir against HSV compared with VZV is due to its more efficient phosphorylation by the viral TK.

The quantitative relationship between the cell culture susceptibility of herpes viruses to antivirals and the clinical response to therapy has not been established in humans, and virus sensitivity testing has not been standardized. Sensitivity testing results, expressed as the concentration of drug required to inhibit by 50% the growth of virus in cell culture (EC ₅₀), vary greatly depending upon a number of factors. Using plaque-reduction assays, the EC ₅₀ values against herpes simplex virus isolates range from 0.09 to 60 μM (0.02 to 13.5 mcg/mL) for HSV-1 and from 0.04 to 44 μM (0.01 to 9.9 mcg/mL) for HSV-2. The EC ₅₀ values for acyclovir against most laboratory strains and clinical isolates of VZV range from 0.53 to 48 μM (0.12 to 10.8 mcg/mL). Acyclovir also demonstrates activity against the Oka vaccine strain of VZV with a mean EC ₅₀ of 6 μM (1.35 mcg/mL).

Resistance of HSV and VZV to acyclovir can result from qualitative and quantitative changes in the viral TK and/or DNA polymerase. Clinical isolates of VZV with reduced susceptibility to acyclovir have been recovered from patients with AIDS. In these cases, TK-deficient mutants of VZV have been recovered.

Resistance of HSV and VZV to acyclovir occurs by the same mechanisms. While most of the acyclovir-resistant mutants isolated thus far from immunocompromised patients have been found to be TK-deficient mutants, other mutants involving the viral TK gene (TK partial and TK altered) and DNA polymerase have also been isolated. TK-negative mutants may cause severe disease in immunocompromised patients. The possibility of viral resistance to valacyclovir (and therefore, to acyclovir) should be considered in patients who show poor clinical response during therapy.

The data presented below include references to the steady-state acyclovir AUC observed in humans treated with 1 gram valacyclovir given orally 3 times a day to treat herpes zoster. Plasma drug concentrations in animal studies are expressed as multiples of human exposure to acyclovir [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Valacyclovir was noncarcinogenic in lifetime carcinogenicity bioassays at single daily doses (gavage) of valacyclovir giving plasma acyclovir concentrations equivalent to human levels in the mouse bioassay and 1.4 to 2.3 times human levels in the rat bioassay. There was no significant difference in the incidence of tumors between treated and control animals, nor did valacyclovir shorten the latency of tumors.

Valacyclovir was tested in five genetic toxicity assays. An Ames assay was negative in the absence or presence of metabolic activation. Also negative were an in vitro cytogenetic study with human lymphocytes and a rat cytogenetic study.

In the mouse lymphoma assay, valacyclovir was not mutagenic in the absence of metabolic activation. In the presence of metabolic activation (76% to 88% conversion to acyclovir), valacyclovir was mutagenic.

Valacyclovir was mutagenic in a mouse micronucleus assay.

Valacyclovir did not impair fertility or reproduction in rats at 6 times human plasma levels.

Two double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials were conducted in 1,856 healthy adults and adolescents (≥ 12 years old) with a history of recurrent cold sores. Patients self-initiated therapy at the earliest symptoms and prior to any signs of a cold sore. The majority of patients initiated treatment within 2 hours of onset of symptoms. Patients were randomized to valacyclovir 2 grams twice daily on Day 1 followed by placebo on Day 2, valacyclovir 2 grams twice daily on Day 1 followed by 1 gram twice daily on Day 2, or placebo on Days 1 and 2.

The mean duration of cold sore episodes was about 1 day shorter in treated subjects as compared with placebo. The 2 day regimen did not offer additional benefit over the one day regimen.

No significant difference was observed between subjects receiving valacyclovir or placebo in the prevention of progression of cold sore lesions beyond the papular stage.

A double-blind, placebo-controlled study to assess transmission of genital herpes was conducted in 1,484 monogamous, heterosexual, immunocompetent adult couples. The couples were discordant for HSV-2 infection. The source partner had a history of nine or fewer genital herpes episodes per year. Both partners were counseled on safer sex practices and were advised to use condoms throughout the study period. Source partners were randomized to treatment with either valacyclovir 500 mg once daily or placebo once daily for 8 months. The primary efficacy endpoint was symptomatic acquisition of HSV-2 in susceptible partners. Overall HSV-2 acquisition was defined as symptomatic HSV-2 acquisition and/or HSV-2 seroconversion in susceptible partners. The efficacy results are summarized in Table 7.

Two randomized double-blind clinical trials in immunocompetent adults with localized herpes zoster were conducted. Valacyclovir was compared with placebo in patients less than 50 years of age, and with oral acyclovir in patients greater than 50 years of age. All patients were treated within 72 hours of appearance of zoster rash. In patients less than 50 years of age, the median time to cessation of new lesion formation was 2 days for those treated with valacyclovir compared with 3 days for those treated with placebo. In patients greater than 50 years of age, the median time to cessation of new lesions was 3 days in patients treated with either valacyclovir or oral acyclovir. In patients less than 50 years of age, no difference was found with respect to the duration of pain after healing (post-herpetic neuralgia) between the recipients of valacyclovir and placebo. In patients greater than 50 years of age, among the 83% who reported pain after healing (post-herpetic neuralgia), the median duration of pain after healing [95% confidence interval] in days was: 40 [31, 51], 43 [36, 55] and 59 [41, 77] for 7 day valacyclovir, 14 day valacyclovir and 7 day oral acyclovir, respectively.

The use of valacyclovir for treatment of chickenpox in pediatric patients 2 to < 18 years of age is based on single-dose pharmacokinetic and multiple-dose safety data from an open-label trial with valacyclovir and supported by safety and extrapolated efficacy data from three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials evaluating oral acyclovir in pediatric patients.

The single-dose pharmacokinetic and multiple-dose safety study enrolled 27 pediatric patients 1 to < 12 years of age with clinically suspected VZV infection. Each subject was dosed with valacyclovir oral suspension, 20 mg/kg 3 times daily for 5 days. Acyclovir systemic exposures in pediatric patients following valacyclovir oral suspension were compared with historical acyclovir systemic exposures in immunocompetent adults receiving the solid oral dosage form of valacyclovir or acyclovir for the treatment of herpes zoster. The mean projected daily acyclovir exposures in pediatric patients across all age-groups (1 to < 12 years of age) were lower (C _max: ↓13%, AUC: ↓30%) than the mean daily historical exposures in adults receiving valacyclovir 1 gram 3 times daily, but were higher (daily AUC: ↑50%) than the mean daily historical exposures in adults receiving acyclovir 800 mg 5 times daily. The projected daily exposures in pediatric patients were greater (daily AUC approximately 100% greater) than the exposures seen in immunocompetent pediatric patients receiving acyclovir 20 mg/kg 4 times daily for the treatment of chickenpox. Based on the pharmacokinetic and safety data from this study and the safety and extrapolated efficacy data from the acyclovir studies, oral valacyclovir 20 mg/kg 3 times a day for 5 days (not to exceed 1 gram 3 times daily) is recommended for the treatment of chickenpox in pediatric patients 2 to < 18 years of age. Because the efficacy and safety of acyclovir for the treatment of chickenpox in children < 2 years of age have not been established, efficacy data cannot be extrapolated to support valacyclovir treatment in children < 2 years of age with chickenpox. Valacyclovir is also not recommended for the treatment of herpes zoster in children because safety data up to 7 days’ duration are not available [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4)] .

Valacyclovir Tablets, USP are available containing valacyclovir hydrochloride, USP equivalent to 500 mg or 1 gram of valacyclovir.

The 500 mg tablets are white, film-coated, oval shaped tablets imprinted with M122 in black ink on one side of the tablet and blank on the other side. They are available as follows:

NDC 0378-4275-93
bottles of 30 tablets

NDC 0378-4275-77
bottles of 90 tablets

NDC 0378-4275-05
bottles of 500 tablets

The 1 gram tablets are white, film-coated, oval shaped tablets with a partial break line on both sides. They are imprinted with M123 in black ink on one side of the tablet and blank on the other side. They are available as follows:

NDC 0378-4276-93
bottles of 30 tablets

NDC 0378-4276-77
bottles of 90 tablets

NDC 0378-4276-05
bottles of 500 tablets

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.]

Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container as defined in the USP using a child-resistant closure.

PHARMACIST: Dispense a Patient Information Leaflet with each prescription.

See FDA-Approved Patient Labeling.

Patients should be advised to maintain adequate hydration.

Patients should be advised to initiate treatment at the earliest symptom of a cold sore (e.g., tingling, itching or burning). There are no data on the effectiveness of treatment initiated after the development of clinical signs of a cold sore (e.g., papule, vesicle or ulcer). Patients should be instructed that treatment for cold sores should not exceed 1 day (two doses) and that their doses should be taken about 12 hours apart. Patients should be informed that valacyclovir tablets are not a cure for cold sores.

Patients should be informed that valacyclovir tablets are not a cure for genital herpes. Because genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease, patients should avoid contact with lesions or intercourse when lesions and/or symptoms are present to avoid infecting partners. Genital herpes is frequently transmitted in the absence of symptoms through asymptomatic viral shedding. Therefore, patients should be counseled to use safer sex practices in combination with suppressive therapy with valacyclovir tablets. Sex partners of infected persons should be advised that they might be infected even if they have no symptoms. Type-specific serologic testing of asymptomatic partners of persons with genital herpes can determine whether risk for HSV-2 acquisition exists.

Valacyclovir tablets have not been shown to reduce transmission of sexually transmitted infections other than HSV-2.

If medical management of a genital herpes recurrence is indicated, patients should be advised to initiate therapy at the first sign or symptom of an episode.

There are no data on the effectiveness of treatment initiated more than 72 hours after the onset of signs and symptoms of a first episode of genital herpes or more than 24 hours after the onset of signs and symptoms of a recurrent episode.

There are no data on the safety or effectiveness of chronic suppressive therapy of more than one year’s duration in otherwise healthy patients. There are no data on the safety or effectiveness of chronic suppressive therapy of more than 6 months’ duration in HIV-infected patients.

There are no data on treatment initiated more than 72 hours after onset of the zoster rash. Patients should be advised to initiate treatment as soon as possible after a diagnosis of herpes zoster.

Patients should be advised to initiate treatment at the earliest sign or symptom of chickenpox.

DRUG: Valacyclovir Hydrochloride

GENERIC: valacyclovir hydrochloride

DOSAGE: TABLET, FILM COATED

ADMINSTRATION: ORAL

NDC: 70518-0541-0

COLOR: white

SHAPE: OVAL

SCORE: Two even pieces

SIZE: 21 mm

IMPRINT: M123

PACKAGING: 4 in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC

ACTIVE INGREDIENT(S):

• VALACYCLOVIR HYDROCHLORIDE 1g in 1

INACTIVE INGREDIENT(S):

• AMMONIA
• SHELLAC
• PROPYLENE GLYCOL
• TITANIUM DIOXIDE
• FERROSOFERRIC OXIDE
• CELLULOSE, MICROCRYSTALLINE
• HYPROMELLOSES
• MAGNESIUM STEARATE
• POLYETHYLENE GLYCOLS


Remedy_label (Remedy Label)