How to Taper Off Valtrex

Genital herpes affects one out of six Americans between the ages of 14 and 49, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Many people infected with the Herpes Simplex Virus experience frequent, prolonged outbreaks that require medical treatment to reduce their symptoms. One common medication used for this is Valtrex, a powerful remedy that works against the virus as long as the user takes it. Though Valtrex helps prevent herpes breakouts, some users may not want to continue their regular dose.

Instructions

• 1

  Speak to your health care provider before tapering off any medications. Taking Valtrex on a daily basis is called "suppressive therapy," and it is highly recommended for individuals who have five or more outbreaks a year. By stopping your medication, you may be putting yourself at risk for more frequent outbreaks.

• 2

  Understand the consequences of coming off your medication. By reducing or stopping your Valtrex dose, you may begin to experience more frequent and more serious outbreaks than you have had while on medication.

• 3

  Reduce your dose of Valtrex slowly. A typical dose for daily suppressive therapy is one pill a day. For the first week you begin to taper, take only half a pill once a day.

• 4

  Take half a pill every other day for the second week you are tapering off. Be on the lookout for signs of a breakout.

• 5

  Stop taking your Valtrex once you reach the third week. Continue to look for signs of a breakout.