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Valtrex and constipation

Posted , 6 users are following.

Peas
Peas

Has anyone had constipation whilst taking valtrex? I read no side effects but I feel like since I started valtrex a month ago I started getting constipation!

0 likes, 10 replies

10 Replies

  • Nitelite007
    Nitelite007 Peas

    Posted

    I too am on Valtrex, having recently had my first outbreak, and I have very bad constipation. From what I read, the problem is not caused by Valtrex.  A recent study from Yale claims the virus causes  permanent damage to the nerves in the colon, not allowing the colon muscles to move food through. I posted the same question, however, under Herpes and Constipation.

    i have increased fiber and water In addition to taking supplemental fiber and stool softeners (cloaca). None of this is working. I still get backed up and the only thing that works is magnesium sulfate, which is like preparing for a colonoscopy! I hope to hear from more people with this problem..to see if it went away or stayed with them. In the Yale study, their research was conducted on mice.  I am still on Valtrex for another 4 days, so I don't know if this will be a life long problem. Sure hope not.

    • Peas
      Peas Nitelite007

      Posted

      I am taking 1 a day as suppressive therapy so I am also hoping this doesn't always last! I currently take mine first thing in the morning so I might just try take one before going to bed instead! See if that helps.

    • Nitelite007
      Nitelite007 Peas

      Posted

      I wish more doctors knew about this association of herpes and constipation.  In another forum, genital herpes and constipation, there are people with this problem who have seen GI specialists who don't seem to understand the problem. This is my first outbreak.  I am on Valtrex for 10 days after which my doctor recommended taking it only during an outbreak.  I should be able to assess whether this is long term as time goes by, but I am not optimistic.  BTW, I meant to write magnesium citrate, not sulfate. Good luck and I will be back to comment on what happens after I get off the Valtrex.

    • SunnyStar
      SunnyStar Nitelite007

      Edited

      interested to know how things turned out in your case.

      i saw that yale study - that was with HSV1; but perhaps it also applies to HSV2. that's my worst nightmare.

  • cheryl197979
    cheryl197979 Peas

    Posted

    I had been prescribed valtrex and took while pregnant. A year and a half later I hadn't been taking it but had an outbreak recently so I took some for a few days and then developed bloating, gas, constipation. I've stopped but still bloated and constipated, will it ever go away?? I'm very concerned.

    • SunnyStar
      SunnyStar cheryl197979

      Posted

      cheryl, interested in what the outcome was with you, valtrex and constipation.

  • justin65188
    justin65188 Peas

    Posted

    I take valtrex and it gives me constipation.  I'm not by what mechanism it does this but it is a known side effect. Once i stop taking it the constipation goes away.  Took over a week in one instance though, it was scary.  Great for irritable bowel but i avoid if possible.

  • SunnyStar
    SunnyStar Peas

    Posted

    Yes, yes, yes!

    I had my first HSV2 outbreak 12 days ago.

    I have always been a good pooper. No problems.

    I took 2 valtrex (generic) the 2nd-6th day of my outbreak (5days) now take 1/day.

    I dont know if it's the valtrex or HSV2... but i have never been more constipated in my life.

    The significant symptoms of this virus are not sores... its the nerve damage - which i hope is not damaging my ability to pee (separate issue) or poop.

    There needs to be more research into this virus, specifically how it impacts women. My boyfriend has no symptoms.

    I am planning on seeing a gastroenterologist if things don't improve.

    I'm interested to hear your stories and tips/tricks to dealing with HSV2.

  • girl22338
    girl22338 Peas

    Posted

    i was experiencing constipation, i think its the virus. im not on meds never have been and i was very constipated at one point. things have gotten better though, try pooping with a stepping stool under your feet to elevate your legs. it always help me

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