Question 1

What is Valacyclovir used for?

Accepted Answer

Valacyclovir is indicated for: DO NOT USE IN CATS, Herpesvirus infections (CHV-1).

Question 2

What routes can Valacyclovir be administered by?

Accepted Answer

Available routes: PO.

Question 3

Which species have cited Valacyclovir dosing data?

Accepted Answer

Valacyclovir dosing in the ExoticRx formulary covers 2 species: Cat (Domestic), Dog (Domestic).

Question 4

Is Valacyclovir a controlled substance?

Accepted Answer

Valacyclovir is not federally scheduled as a controlled substance, but is veterinary prescription only in most jurisdictions.

Question 5

What are the warnings or contraindications for Valacyclovir?

Accepted Answer

TOXIC TO CATS — causes acute hepatic necrosis and fatal bone marrow suppression. Dogs tolerate well. Ensure adequate hydration.

Question 6

What are the side effects of Valacyclovir?

Accepted Answer

TOXIC TO CATS — causes acute hepatic necrosis and fatal bone marrow suppression. Dogs tolerate well. Ensure adequate hydration.

Question 7

How does Valacyclovir work?

Accepted Answer

Prodrug rapidly converted to acyclovir. Triphosphorylated form inhibits viral DNA polymerase and causes chain termination. Active against herpesviruses.

Species	Route	Dose	Frequency	Evidence	Source
Dog (Domestic)	PO	10–20 mg/kg	q8-12h	Moderate	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Cat (Domestic)	PO	0 mg/kg	N/A	Strong	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Valacyclovir

Drug Class

Routes

Indications

Mechanism of Action

Side effects & warnings

Species with Valacyclovir dosing data (2 dose rules)

Evidence levels across 2 dose rules

Backed by a published primary source

Sample dosing (2 of 2 cited rules)

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