LACK OF INTERACTION BETWEEN VALACICLOVIR, THE L-VALYL ESTER OF ACYCLOVIR, AND MAALOX ANTACID

Valaciclovir is rapidly and extensively converted to acyclovir. In thi s study we investigated the potential interaction between oral valacic lovir and Maalox. On each of three occasions 18 healthy volunteers rec eived a single oral dose of 1000 mg, valaciclovir, or 30 mL Maalox 65 min after valacicolovir administration, or 30 mL Maalox 30 min before valaciclovir. Acyclovir plasma concentrations and pharmacokinetic para meters were not significantly affected by administration of Maalox bef ore or after valaciclovir. Therefore, there is no need for restriction of valaciclovir dosing in patients receiving antacid medication.