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Valtrex Drug Interactions
Cimetidine, probenecid, and tenofovir can all interact with Valtrex, increasing the level of Valtrex in your blood. In most cases, this will not cause problems and the doses will not need to be adjusted. However, your risk of side effects due to these interactions is increased if you have poor kidney function. Therefore, your doctor may adjust your doses if this is the case for you.
Valtrex® (valacyclovir hydrochloride) can potentially react with many drugs. Some of the drugs that may lead to interactions include:
- Cimetidine (Tagamet®)
- Probenecid (Benuryl®, Benemid®, ColBenemid®)
- Tenofovir (Viread®).
Valtrex Drug Interactions Explained
The following sections explain in detail how certain drugs can interact in a negative fashion when taken with Valtrex.
Cimetidine
Taking Valtrex with cimetidine can increase the level of Valtrex in your blood. For most people, this interaction will not cause any problems, and the doses of these medications do not need to be adjusted. However, your risk of side effects due to this interaction is increased if you have poor kidney function. Talk to your healthcare provider about combining these medications if you have kidney problems.
Probenecid
Taking Valtrex and probenecid together can increase the level of Valtrex in your blood. For most people, this interaction will not cause any problems, and the doses of these medications do not need to be adjusted. However, your risk of side effects due to this interaction is increased if you have poor kidney function. If you have kidney problems, talk to your healthcare provider about combining these medications.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD